"I've forgotten it," he said. "Your gift I mean, will you accompany me?" Gazing up at the tall apartment building, Nyiakole had a conflicting look upon her young face. Carefully she bit the inside of her cheek as she weighed her options and their outcomes. "Do you not want your gift?" he asked. Turning her stare, Nyiakole looked over to her companion. His golden eyes peered right back at her. He was taller then her by at a foot, pushing an inch or two over six feet. Compared to a human, he looked to be in his early thirties, but he was much, much older then that. Like always, his shoulder length black hair was pulled back into a tie.

His outfit reminded Nyiakole of the numerous business men she constantly saw around the city. Black slacks, white collared shirt and black tie. However, their evening was more of a formal one, having went to a gourmet restaraunt and an opera play. Letting out a sigh, the thought of going up to his apartment made Nyiakole uneasy. She didn't want to offend him any farther. It was how she got into this whole mess of spending the evening with him.

"Sorry..." she apologized. "Its unexpected... you caught me off guard Junyaho." His lips twitched up into a half smile as he gazed upon his younger escort. Her dark green eyes shined brilliantly in the night as her short, shaggy black hair framed her pale face. The elegant red gown she was dressed in fit her so well, showing off every curve of her maturing body.

"All this time Princess, and you are still surprised I shower you with gifts?" Junyaho asked with a chuckle. Nyiakole returned the smile.

"Any gift from you is a surprise." Her words caused Junyaho to chuckle once more.

"Your ... manny... has taught you politeness well. Come on, it shan't take long," Junyaho informed her as he held out his arm. Reluctantly, Nyiakole wrapped her arms around his and let him lead her into the building. They stood quietly and awkwardly, at least for Nyiakole, in the elevator. It seemed to take forever as they had to reach the top floor. No surprise there, Nyiakole had thought to herself. Eventually, Junyaho lead her to his apartment door. Opening with a creak, he walked in. Nyiakole stood in the hallway for a moment. Her instincts were telling her something wasn't right, but she ignored them. Taking steps, she entered the small apartment and closed the door .

"Its... nice," Nyiakole said, taking a moment to glance around. The walls were painted a neutral brown and expensive items decorated the walls and shelfs .

"Its just a little something for when I come and stay in the city," Junyaho stated. Walking to the back of the apartment where a bedroom was located, he continued the conversation. "I wish you wouldn't have lied to me. Had I known you moved to New York, I would have tried to make more time for you. I am traveling back to Sweden tomorrow, but I will let you know when I will be back here.... you must be so lonely living here by yourself." As Junyaho chatted, Nyiakole took interest at looking at some art work on the wall. That lie. It made Nyiakole inwardly sigh at herself.

Two days prior did she bump into Junyaho, instead of telling him she had moved to New York, she lied. Saying she was merely visiting and then lied again to avoid spending time with him when he offered to take her to lunch. There was nothing bad about Junyaho,but ever since she was little, his presence made her uncomfortable. He was daunting and intimating in a way her brute of father wasn't, and Nyiakole didn't like that. Of course her lies were discovered and her father was furious with her. Junyaho was a powerful family alley. Nyiakole's father was the ruler of one clan as Junyaho was of another. Not wanting to cause tension between the two, Nyiakole had to play nice and rectify the situation.

"On the contrary, I rather enjoy it... being by myself," Nyiakole claimed. "Its been a rather nice break from the routine I had at home."

"Perhaps... Say... you have a birthday coming up soon don't you? You will be eighteen this year correct?"

"Yes," Nyiakole sighed. Placing her hands behind her back she idly waited, wondering what was taking Junyaho so long. "I don't think I will celebrate this year," she added.

"Nonsense," Junyaho whispered in her ear, sneaking up behind her.

"Junyaho... I didn't hear..." was all Nyiakole gasped out as suddenly, he had pushed her against the wall. She felt engulfed by his larger frame as his predatory eyes gazed down upon her. Nyiakole wasn't sure what to say as his stare made her so uncomfortable. In a small act of submission, she adverted her eyes to the floor. A low, pleased growl emmited from Junyaho as he grabbed Nyiakole's chin with his hand and tilted her head back up so that their gazes locked once more. His head then lowered to her's and his lips pressed firmly against her soft ones. Shocked, Nyiakole found herself unable to react other then to just stand there.

Slyly, his other hand found its way to her chest and gave a painful squeeze before gently massaging her breast. Reaching up, Nyiakole placed her hands against his chest and tried to push him away. She opened her mouth to tell him to stop it when she felt his tongue push into her mouth and move around. Fear fluttered around Nyiakole stomach as her heart started to beat faster. Just as quickly as he had pounced on her, Junyaho ended his forced kiss and removed his groping hand. Nyiakole looked up at him, her body trembling.

"You are growing into such a beautiful female, its something you should celebrate," Junyaho whispered against her lips.

"Let me go," Nyiakole wimpered softly.

"Now, now Princess, I have waited a long time for this," Junyaho replied. Nyiakole then started trying to tug away from him, but he held her firmly against the wall. Tilting her head up, Junyaho peered into Nyiakole's green eyes with his golden ones. In a desperate act, Nyiakole kneed Junyaho hard in the stomach. Not even budging, he quickly slapped her as his temper started to flair.

"Look bitch," He hissed by her ear. "This can happen the hard way or the easy way, but its going to happen." Nyiakole felt unable to move as Junyaho's hand move to the edge of her dress and push it up to her hips.

"Please," she said a bit weakly. Tears coming to her eyes. "Don't do this," she begged. Moving his hand to the side of Nyiakole's face, he gently caressed her soft skin.

"Why my little Princess?" Junyaho asked, dragging his tongue against the side of Nyiakole's face. "You are to be my mate, you should feel honored," he softly whispered. Nyiakole closed her eyes as more tears slipped down her face. The news about beings mates was new to her ears. Feeling his hands against her hips again where her dress was bunched up, Nyiakole felt a sickening shiver move through her body. Junyaho gripped the edge of her panties and using his clawed fingers, he ripped them from Nyiakole. Feeling the cool air touch her bare skin, she began to tremble.

In a flash, she was laying back on the carpeted floor as Junyaho sat between her spread legs. Taking a moment, he unbuttoned his white collared shirt, revealing his well toned chest and abdomen before unzipping his pants. Nyiakole closed her eyes and turned her head away. 

 "No stop. Stop! Please, just stop," Nyiakole begged. 

"But we just begun my sweet Princess," Junyaho grinned. After he had his fun with her body and finally moved off of her, Nyiakole felt so exposed, violated, and ruined.

"Please... Just let me go now," Nyiakole begged softly. Junyaho just chukled  and laid his arm over her back, giving her butt a squeeze, he spoke.

"Don't worry, its never good the first few times. Soon you will find yourself enjoying it as much as I do. Its a shame you want this to be over so quickly." Leaning over to try and kiss Nyiakole, she turned her head from him.

"I will never enjoy it, I hate you," she grumbled. "Just wait until I tell my father," Nyiakole threaten. Junyaho chuckled.

"You won't," he said. "If you go to the King, then I will withdraw my offer to be your mate and you will be nothing more then a common whore. You will lose your chance at the throne, no one would want to start a mateship with you and you will be reduced to a plaything for the guards in your father's court," he said. Nyiakole bit her lip as more tears rolled down her face. It was true. Regardless that she was raped, by her future mate no less, she had failed to keep herself untouched until she was in an offical mateship. Even if she didn't tell on Junyaho, he could easily tell her father he sampled her and found Nyiakole unsatisfactory when it came to intimacy.

"Don't worry my sweet little dragoness," Junyaho said as he stroked her hair. "We will be officialized soon enough and all of this will be behind us." Standing up, Junyaho walked away and left Nyiakole laying on the floor. After a few moments, Nyiakole could hear the shower running. Standing up slowly, Nyiakole pulled the shreded top of her dress around her chest. She didn't waste another moment. Nyiakole darted to the door and flung it open to run down the hallway. Stumbling for a moment as she bent down and removed her heels in mid stride and casted them away.

Her running continued as she didn't even bother using the elevator. Instead, she ran down the nearly endless flight of stairs. Banging her body against the stairway door, she didn't stop as she ran past curious on-lookers. Even as the cool night air hit her in the face, Nyiakole kept running. Her own residence was less then ten blocks away, nestled in the lower end of Manhattan. Arriving upon a seemingly abandon building, Nyiakole stopped and looked up at her tempory home.

It took her months to convince her father to let her move here and a lot of his money to renovate the inside of this building. While the walk in floor remained the same, the upstairs was refinished into six bedrooms equiped with their own bathroom. Below, the basement was converted into a bar and lounge. It was more of her father's idea. He figured it would be a good cover if any humans came snopping by. The world was covered in them and most weren't aware of the nonhuman population that exsited along side them. She ended up nicknaming her dwelling Chaotic Nights.

The home she had grew up in was across the sea in Eurpoe and life had not been the most pleasant one. It was basically sleep, study and train. She was known as a protege in her race, able to do what females couldn't. She exceeded in her learning, surpassing her elder brothers birthrights and was named her father's heir. She felt so much pressure as expectations were so high. Getting a taste of indepence, Nyiakole was glad her father eventually let her leave the family home. But now, she regreted it. With all her education and training, she couldn't even protect herself. Pressing her hands against the double doors, she easily pushed them open.

The doors were never locked, and the knobs were so bad that the doors didn't even close properly more then half the time. The vast area inside was dark and dusty, cobwebs clung to nearly everything. Liking the old and abandoned look, Nyiakole had kept it this way during the remodel. Walking towards a grand staircase that spiraled up, she ascended to the second floor. After walking down the hall, Nyiakole just stood in front of her door. She replayed what happened in her mind over and over. She felt the tears roll down the side of her face. As the sound of a door creeking open echoed in the hallway, Nyiakole quickly wiped her face and glanced over her shoulder. Standing there was her renagade roommate, Rei Hun.

Nyiakole let her dark green eyes roam over the six foot plus two inches tall twenty-something year old human from Korea. He was wearing a simple white tank top with black jeans. He had long dark blue hair that was tied back and eyes similar to her's, just a few shades lighter. He had wandered in nearly two months prior, on the run from authorities after exposing political fraud or something like that. Nyiakole wasn't exactly sure, it all sounded boring to her. Nonetheless, somehow his actions indirectly helped her father so he had to stay. Nyiakole was irritated at first, but he turned out not to be so bad. He didn't bug her, he was polite and he could cook, Nyiakole adored that fact the most. As she reached up to wipe her face once more, Rei could tell something was wrong. Her dress seemed torn, she didnt have any shoes, her eyes were red like she had been crying.

"I was wondering if you were going to come home tonight... Its late... I was getting worried," Rei said. Nyiakole didn't answer him, instead she looked down at the floor. "Hey, are you alright?" He knew she had went out with Lord Junyaho tonight on dragon business. When she didn't return when expected, Rei started to get concerned, and it appeared to be justified.

"Yeah, I am just tired," Nyiakole replied. "I am going to bed."

"Nyiakole... did Junyaho do this to you?" Rei asked. She looked to the floor and shook her head.

"No...its just... its not," she stuttered out before she placed her hands on her face. Rei stood still for a few moments and stepped over to her. He wrapped his arms around her and tried to comfort her.

"Shhh... calm down... its going to be alright." As Nyiakole continued to cry Rei sighed. "Come on," he said. Rei escorted Nyiakole to her room. He sat on her bed next to her, after she showered and changed into pajamas, and watched some late night wacky game show until Nyiakole fell asleep. As she slept, Rei didn't leave Nyiakole's side. He didn't excatly know what happened, but he did not want to ask Nyiakole about it just yet, not while she was so upset. Pulling out his phone from his pocket, Rei stared at it and debated on calling the Dragon King.

 

2: Chapter 2

Chapter 2:

Nyiakole stood in front of her father, doing her best to maintain eye contact. Upright and proper, she resembled a solider in the army. Her father's deep red eyes held an intense and intimating glare at her as he sat in his large chair. Calling her father a brute was an understatement. He was pushing inches over seven feet tall, built with dense muscle, and a temper to match his daunting presence. He was known as the dragon of strength and the only clan leader to hold the title of King. Silence filled the air, and it was almost gut retching the way he stared at her. Finally Nyiakole adverted her eyes, looking down to the floor.

"It would seem Lord Junyaho didn't find your company pleasant," she heard her father claim in his deep, demanding tone. Nyiakole bit her bottom lip before answering.

"Perhaps if he had planned a better evening my... company could be more pleasant," she corresponded. Her father gruffed as he stood up from his chair. The morning after Junyaho forced himself on her, Nyiakole packed her bags and hopped on the first flight home to Esbulin. It was grand city for non human life nestled along the European coastline, hidden by government bribes and powerful magic from the eyes of humans. She had debated and debated on telling her father what Junyaho had done, but the possible consequences made her hesitate. Junyaho did not hesitate. He called her father and complained, said that her lack of interest and attitude was very disrespectful. He, of course, left out the fact he violated her. As her father demanded to speak to her and seeing his anger flare over that, Nyiakole decided not to say anything either. King Brixinoxx's red eyes narrowed at his daughter.

"Junyaho is not only older and more powerful then you, he is the leader of our ally clan. I don't fucking care if he takes you to watch the grass grow, you will treat him with dignity and respect and you will always, always conduct yourself properly in his presence!" Brixinoxx growled out harshly.

"Why?" Nyiakole demanded. "Because we are arranged to be mates? I can not stand him! I am not going to pretend to like him to feed his ego and I will not agree to be his mate!"

"You will do what I say!" he said, raising his deep voice.

"If mother was alive she would never let you do this!" Nyiakole said. Brixinoxx forcibly swatted a lamp off his desk. It crashed and shattered against the stone floor of their home and silence filled the air. Her father stood there for a moment, the anger emitting from him was immense. Brixinoxx took two strides over to Nyiakole. Grabbing his daughter, right under her jaw, he squeezed her cheeks with his hand as he lifted her up. Nyiakole felt herself being brought to her tip toes as the pain from her father's grip shot fear through her body. Brixinoxx could see the dread in his daughter's eyes, but she didn't flinch, nor struggle to get away.

"Don't you fucking get a tone with me," he said harshly. "If I am leaving our clan's well being in your hands then you are going to be the mate of whoever I fucking say! I don't care if you like Junyaho or not. Your mother is dead, and if she was alive, she wouldn't be able to stop shit! He is going to be your mate and that is that. Now I don't want to hear one more damn word about it! Understand?" Nyiakole clenched her jaw and took a deep breath. Her hands clenched into fists.

"I understand," she grumbled out. With a jerk of his hand, Brixinoxx pushed his daughter away, letting go of her face.

"Good, I expect better from you. You are to stay here for the next few days and train and study with Marruu. I expect to see some improvement," he said. Nyiakole nodded.

"Yes sir," Nyiakole said.

"No rift raft?"

"No."

"Good, get to Marruu right away, I don't want to see you for the rest of the night," he ordered. Nyiakole stood there for a moment and then inhaled, bold enough to ask.

"When were you going to tell me? That you arranged us to mate?"

"I do not believe that is any of your fucking concern," he said.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Walking down the street towards Chaotic Nights, Nyiakole replayed her visit with her father again and again in her mind. Feeling tired and sore from days of harsh training and sparring, she let her thoughts wander back to the night Junyaho raped her. How did something like this even happen? She was the protege of her race and heir to her father's rule. Being gifted would be an understatement. No other female could breath fire or use an element and majority of them could barely summon magic. Her whole life, as far back as she could remember she had been educated, trained in physical combat, magic and in her element. What went wrong?

Nyiakole kept mentally beating herself up and before she knew it, she standing in front of the double doors, Nyiakole was just glad to be home. Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed a small package resting on the ground by the door. Nyiakole squatted down and examined the unmarked box wrapped in brown paper. Picking it up, she turned it over to inspect. No name or return label. Nyiakole set the box back down and using her sharp finger nail, she sliced the tape and opened the box. Inside was a black metal case. Curious, she pulled out the case, laid it on the ground and opened it.Laying there in padded foam was a sleek, black gun. Why was a gun delivered to her residence in an unmarked package? She didn't request one. Carefully, Nyiakole picked it up and noticed there was more under the foam padding. Lifting it up to peek, she saw rows of golden bullets nestled snuggly in their own pad of foam. Hesitantly, she reached down and touched one of the bullets. The tip of her finger burned on contact. It was real gold. The metallic mineral reacted against dragon hide. Some were highly susceptible to its effects while others barely had any kind of reaction. It was considered to be an insult to most dragons to bring any kind of gold around them, especially in bullet form.

Nyiakole quickly laid the foam back down and placed the gun back inside before closing the case. By that time she heard the sound of a motorcycle approaching. It slowed, stopped behind her and then cut off. Standing up, she turned around to see Rei getting off the vehicle and removing his helmet. Surprised to see Nyiakole back, Rei set the helmet on the seat of his bike and noticed she was standing next to his package and it was opened.

"Hey, Nyiakole," Rei said a bit wearily. She had been gone for only a few days, he expected she wouldn't be back until next week. "I didn't think you would be back so soon." Nyiakole just stood there as she crossed her arms.

"Rei, what is this? Is this your package?" she asked accusingly. Rei felt nervous. Had he known Nyiakole would be returning, he would have had the package delivered more privately.

"It is Nyiakole, please understand, I never meant for you to see this," he said.

"Why did you get it then? What do you plan on using it for? Against me? My father? Even after I let you use my home as a safe haven?" Nyiakole asked.

"It would be a lie if I said bringing your father to justice never crossed my mind Nyiakole. He is king of one of the most powerful dragon clans. I know you are loyal to him, but he causes a lot of misfortune to others," Rei replied.

"Taking down my father would be a foolish thing to do Rei," Nyiakole said firmly. "And you would be wrong to think I wouldn't stop you myself." Rei was silent as he held his gaze at Nyiakole.

"I know," he said. "And same to you if you decide to get in my way . But just know Nyiakole, I didn't get this gun and bullets to use against your father.... Or you." Nyiakole took a heavy breath before turning towards the door.

"I don't want to see that again," she said as she turned to go inside.

"Nyiakole," Rei called out. As she turned around, Rei sighed. "All this you go through, all the things your father makes you do... Its because you want to right? Not because its what is expected."

"I am going to be Queen of Dragons one day Rei, of course its what I want," Nyiakole said. Opening the double doors, Nyiakole walked inside and Rei standing on the side walk. He stood there for a moment and let out a big sigh as his shoulders slumped. Picking up the opened package, Rei walked in and headed downstairs. It was like entering a different world. Low dimmed lights hung from the ceiling illuminating a dark cherry wood bar counter that had sleek black leather stools. A few tables and chairs were scattered about. A door behind the bar counter lead to a fully stocked kitchen. Next to the bar on the other side, a few steps dipped down into the lounge area. Two big, black leather sofas and two chairs were arranged in a semi-circular design with a long sleek coffee table that was nestled in the small curvature of the furniture. Reaching the last step, he spotted his red head associate eating a sandwich at the bar counter.

"Had a chance to look at it yet?" he asked. Rei grumbled, placing a hand over his face. Striding over to the bar counter, he set the package down before sitting himself.

"You couldn't bring the gun and bullets down here with you Nukha?" he irritately asked. His friend shook his head, swaying his blood red hair, chuckling as he took a bite from the sandwich.

"Well I dropped it off... And I kinda wanted to look around the place, and then I got hungry and kinda forgot it was up there," Nukha said. "Why? Did the little miss princess not like it?"

"What do you think?" Rei said. Nukha shrugged.

"So is ol' Lord Junyaho the reason you wanted to get this?" Nukha mused.

"Look, the creep knows Nyiakole lives here. If he comes around here to bother her then I want to even out the playing field is all," Rei stated.

"Why?" Nukha asked bluntly, looking at Rei with his blue eyes. Rei glanced over to his friend.

"Why what?" he retorted.

"Why do you want to protect Nyiakole?" Nukha pried further, taking another bite from the sandwich. "Got some fantasy about being a hero to the princess? Rescuing her from the big bad dragon and getting laid in the process? I believe that would be bestiality my friend. Underneath that cute human appearance of her's is all claws, fangs and scales."

"Wha...? No!" Rei stuttered out. "She is nice and everything, but she.... is like a friend."

"Uh-huh sure. Some words of advice, don't meddle in dragon business," Nukha warned. Rei remained silent until Nukha spoke again. "Is the helpless princess going to be coming down here anytime soon?"

"Not sure, why?" Rei asked.

"Eh... I might want to take a shot with her," Nukha claimed. "Its not every day I can get with a princess, a dragon one at that."

"Wha.... what?!" Rei spat in shock. "You are out of your damn mind! What happened to the fangs and claws you were talking about and that bestially bull?"

"Half-vampire. I fall into the category of non-human. There is nothing taboo about the possible sweet love we could make," Nukha said with a grin. Rei covered his ears and tilted his head up to the ceiling.

"Oh my god you are such a pervert. Have fun being burnt into ash. I promise you, she won't fall for any of your cheap wooing," Rei said as he stood up.

"Aww, don't be jealous," Nukha teased.

"Jealous? Jealous of what?" Rei asked, glancing at the red head as he walked behind the bar counter.

"One, my amazing charm and luck with women, two, that I actually have the balls to ask a girl out," Nukha said slyly. Rei shook his head as he filled a glass with water.

"You are so full of yourself."

"So you won't mind then if I hit on the girl you have been shacking up with?" Nukha asked with a grin. Rei gave Nukha a hard glare. The half-vampire just chuckled and finished his sandwich. "Tell her highness thanks for the lovely meal," he said sarcastically before getting up and leaving. Rei just shook his head. The half-vampire was quite the woman chaser, but Rei was glad that he managed to make a weapon manufacture and dealer as a friend. Even more that he let Rei keep a tab. After eating a brisk lunch himself, Rei checked messages on his phone and one shocked him. In the message there were pictures of a girl, similar in appearance, with blue eyes and tan skin. She was naked and in a cage. The message was sent from Testy, an old family friend of Rei's. Attached to the message was an address.

"Fucking damn it," Rei growled through his teeth. Running up the stairs to the main level, he stopped for a moment and looked up towards the ceiling. Should he tell Nyiakole that he had to leave? After discovering the gun and bullets he ordered, she probably wouldn't care. Not wasting another moment, Rei ran outside, got on his motorcycle, and left.

Upstairs, in her bathroom, Nyiakole was unpacking a few things from her trip to see her family. Setting her hairbrush on the counter, she looked up and stared at her reflection in the wall mirror. Why did she even have to mate someone? Did her father not trust her enough to rule their clan by herself? All of this shouldn't have surprised her as much as it did. It was very common in their race for mateships to be arranged by a suitor and the dominate male of the female's kin clan, such as an older brother or father. Usually if the female wasn't interested, she could decline the suitor, or even provoke a male she did like into fighting for her. Being in her current position, Nyiakole did not have the option. One, she was in too high of a position for her father to settle for anyone less and two,if she made to much of a fuss about it, she would risk her father finding out what Junyaho did and she could lose her chance to be Queen.

Having her status taken away and losing the prospects for a mate, her reputation in her father's court as well, as a suitable mate, would be ruined. Feeling anger rise in her chest, Nyiakole punched the mirror with such force that it shook the wall the mirror was on. A spider web of cracks coated the mirror before the hundred of shards fell all over the counter and floor, making clinking sounds as they landed. Taking a deep breath, Nyiakole picked up a triangular shaped shard that about about seven inches long. Pressing the sharp tip of the shard to her middle finger of her opposite hand, she slowly pulled the shard down her finger, over her palm and to her wrist, making a single deep cut. 

At this point, there was nothing she could do. She would go a long with it. She would be mates with Junyaho for however long she needed to be. She wouldn't make it nice, she wouldn't make it easy and on the day she would become Queen and fully in charge of their clan, she would void their mateship cast out Junyaho from her court and from her life. Tossing the shard to the floor, Nyiakole turned on the sink and washed the blood from her hand, muttering words with soft breaths. The wound was gone. She leaned over the counter and grabbed the metal frame that surrounded the mirror and ripped it off the wall and threw it on the floor with the shards. Removing her phone from her pocket, Nyiakole sent a text to Marruu, her care taker, that the mirror had fell and she needed someone to replace it. 

3: Chapter 3

Chapter 3:

Pear stood in the break room of her work, slowly stirring a cup of coffee with a tired expression on her face. Her attire was simple. Garbed in a printed short sleeved tee, dark blue jeans and sneakers, her outfit was complete with a black hat on her brown haired head. Walking up beside her, one of her co-workers poured herself cup of coffee as well.

"You must be new," she said. Pear nodded.

"Yeah, I have been with the messaging department for a couple weeks," she replied.

"Oh really?" she asked. "How long have you been on your shift?"

"About twenty one hours," Pear said.

"Oh, you are about done then." Pear was about to respond when an older man poked his head into the break room.

"Hey, boss wants to see you now," he said, pointing to Pear.

"Excuse me," she told the co-worker. Leaving the break room, Pear weaved her way through the maze of cubicles until she stood in the messaging manager's office. Shutting the door behind her, Pear glanced around. She had never been called into the office before and she hoped it wasn't for bad reasons. The office itself wasn't very big. There was a large sleek black desk in front of a huge window that overlooked the skyscrapers of New York City. There were two leather chairs in front of the desk and a large plaque on the wall that read 'P.R.I.M.E'. in silver polished letters.It was the name of the company Pear was employed with.

It stood for Power, Re-engineering, Intelligence, Messaging, and Energy. The company catered to the needs of nonhumans all over the human run world. It was a tough company to work for, it was ran strictly and firmly. If anyone slipped up, it could be a human, or a mass of them discovering the nonhuman population. The messaging department wasn't big, but it was essential. A lot of important information was transported by the department to keep it out of sight from the human eye. Their methods and technology was untraceable by the human standard.

"You... Wanted to see me?" Pear asked. The manger nodded and gestured to a file on his desk.

"Yes, we were charged with an important delivery today and I am assigning it to you," he explained. "Its local, here in the city so I expect no issues." Pear seemed a bit hesitant. She had never been called into the office to be charged with a delivery, but then again she hadn't worked very long with the department.

"The information sir?" Pear asked. Her boss huffed and crossed his arms as he leaned back in his chair.

"The message is from Lord Junyaho Tensu to Nyiakole Kuroryutsuki," he said as he gave Pear a stern look. Tensu and Kuroryustuki were two very powerful names among the dragons, a race that was powerful themselves. Pear may have not worked in the messaging department for very long, but she worked with P.R.I.M.E. long enough to know no one liked to deliver messages to Brixinoxx or anyone that shared his last name. "The address is in the file, get to this immediately." Pear shifted from one foot to the other.

"Sir, maybe a more experienced messenger might be better for such a... high profile delivery," Pear suggested. The manager shook his head.

"No, they have declined and earned their right to do so. If you come back alive after the delivery, then you can pass the buck to the newest recruit as well, now get going." With an inward sigh, Pear nodded and took the file off his desk. Leaving the manager's office, she stopped by her own little cubical. Her grey eyes scanned through the file and found the address and linked the directions from the computer to her cell phone. Not wasting anymore time, she left the building and starting walking down the streets of the city to her destination. Pear could not take the subway, or a cab. She could not leave any paper trace of where she was from or where she was going in case any human became suspicious.

It took nearly forty five minutes but soon Pear was standing in front of an empty looking building. Was this right? Pulling the file from her bag, she double checked everything. This was the given address. Carefully, Pear pushed the doors that didn't seem to close properly, open. The open room was dark. Flicking the light switch near the door, it did nothing to help. With a sigh, Pear fumbled her way through the dark until she found a large stair case that spiraled down. The sound of voices caught her ears. Taking a hesitant breath, she started to walk down the stairs. As it curved around, Pear was stunned to the lounge and bar. It was not in the least what she expected. Spotting the source of the sound, a large television was on in a sitting area, however, there wasn't a soul in sight.

"Excuse me? Anyone here?" Pear boldly called out. Within a few seconds the door behind the kitchen opened and standing there was a petite girl with short messy black hair.

"Can I help you?" she asked Pear. The messenger nodded.

"Yeah.... I am looking for Nyiakole...Kuro...Kuro," she stumbled.

"Kuroryustuki, that's me," Nyiakole said.

"Oh, sorry. I have a message for you," Pear informed her. Reaching into her side bag, Pear pulled out the small, unmarked envelope and handed it to Nyiakole. Taking it from the messenger, the dragon inspected the letter curiously.

"Who from?" she asked.

"Junyaho Tensu," Pear replied professionally. Nyiakole stiffened at hearing the name as a frown came to her face. Using her sharp fingernail, Nyiakole sliced opened the envelope and unfolded the letter. She couldn't even read the first few sentences before she crumbled the paper in her hands. Anger burned into her chest as she was forced to remember that night a little over two weeks ago. Feeling her chest tighten, and tears push against her eyes, she bit the inside of her bottom lip.

"Excuse me," she told the messenger, tossing the ball of paper onto the counter. Walking out from behind the bar, Nyiakole made her way to the small half bathroom by the staircase and shut herself inside. Pear stood a little awkwardly. At seeing Nyiakole react so angrily to the letter, she was afraid that the dragon might lash out at her. But now as it appeared she was upset, Pear was curious as to what was in the letter. Under no circumstances was she allowed to read, ask questions or offer advice about the content of the messages. Pear just couldn't help herself.

Reaching over the counter while keeping an eye on the bathroom door, she carefully picked up the letter and silently uncrumbled the paper. The letter was disgusting and vulgar as it went into detail about a sexual encounter between them. However, as the letter described how scared Nyiakole was and how her torment aroused Junyaho, it was painting a clearer picture to Pear on why Nyiakole was so upset.

"Have your troubles been paid for?" Nyiakole asked in a stern voice. Having been caught, Pear stiffened and set the letter back on the bar counter.

"Sorry... Let me check." Taking out the file, Pear scrolled through. There was a balance left. "Uhh....yes, its all taken care of," she lied.

"Thank you for your services, leave now," Nyiakole said. Pear nodded, but found herself unable to move.

"I am sorry... Its none of my business, but, did he, did he rape you Nyiakole?" she asked. The dragon held a hard stare at Pear before finally looking away.

"It is none of your buisness," Nyiakole replied.

"Have you reported him?" Pear asked. She knew she would get in a lot of trouble for this.

"Report him? To who?" Nyiakole asked defensively.

"Well I don't know, your authorities, or the Dragon King, you are related to him aren't you? You share the same last name." Pear suggested.

"He is my father, and trust me, he is the last person I would ever tell," Nyiakole said. Stunned, Pear had no idea she was talking to the daughter of Brixinoxx.

"So what? You are just not going to do anything? You were raped and you aren't going to do anything?" Pear acclaimed.

"You were raped?" asked a male's voice. Looking toward the stairs, Nyiakole became stunned as her caretaker was standing there with his hands on his hips. There was a shocked glare in his light blue eyes. "You were fucking raped? That better not be true."

"Marruu, I...uh... What are you doing here?" Nyiakole stuttered out. The male dragon placed a hand on his forehead. For a male, he was quiet petite, only standing five feet and seven inches. His short hair was pulled back into a tie and he was dressed in stylish clothing. Appearing to be in his early thirties, his looks were deceiving. Strong and cunning, he was the right hand to the King and was personally charged with Nyiakole's education and care.

"I brought your new mirror today, remember?" he scoffed. Nyiakole sighed, she had forgotten. "Is what she said true Nyiakole?"

"Its here, in this letter," said Pear. Walking over to her, Marruu snatched the crumbled paper from her hands. After reading over the letter, he growled out as it appeared to be a more precarious situation."Upstairs now," he ordered to Nyiakole. Reluctantly, the dragon princess walked up the stairs to her room, grumbling all the way. Turning his glare to the other girl, Marruu asked. "And who are you?"

"My name is Pear, I work for P.R.I.M.E., I delivered the letter," Pear explained hesitantly. She was definitely going to be in serious trouble. "I am sorry, I didn't mean to pry or cause trouble. Please don't report this to P.R.I.M.E., I use to work in the Intelligence department. I got caught hacking somewhere I wasn't suppose to and was demoted to messenger, I don't need another bad report."

"Snooping where you weren't suppose to, imagine that." Marruu said with a sarcastic roll of his eyes. "Well, you have stumbled in to a sticky situation Pear. I can't exactly let you leave knowing classified information."

"Classified? Come on you have got to be kidding me! The poor girl was raped! Why is everyone wanting to be so hush hush about it? Why not tell on the bastard?" Pear demanded.

"Because the bastard isn't some little fucktard of a dragon I can easily kill in the middle of the night and have this whole situation disappear, he is fucking Lord Junyaho, the leader of the Tensu clan and Nyiakole's loyri," explained Marruu. Pear placed her hands on her hips.

"Loyri?" she questioned. Marruu grumbled.

"You humans... Her mate to be, her....fiance." Pear's jaw dropped.

"Wouldn't that be all the more reason to tell someone?"

"Its not that simple," said Marruu. "By bringing this to attention, two clans that where suppose to untie could end up warring against each other. I could lose my position, be outcasted or killed because I failed at keeping her safe, Nyiakole could lose her titled and be labeled a whore. So this is a big deal and needs to be kept quiet." Pear huffed. This all seemed ridiculous to her, but then again, they were dragons and she was not.

"So what now? I promise I won't tell anyone," she said with a sigh.

"I know you won't. You aren't returning to your little delivery job, you are staying right here. If you managed to work in the Intelligence department, I am sure I can find some use for you."

"What? You can't do that!"

"I can and I will, unless you want to leave here dead, I can arrange that as well," Marruu said. Pear didn't say anything else and just crossed her arms. "Good, write do all your information. Full name, identification numbers, and any bank accounts. I will be back shortly."

--------

Hiding in the shadows of the alley, Rei watched the activities on the street. Being on his quest for a couple weeks, it had been no easy feat. Finally managing to sneak his way into China, Rei was getting close to his goal. Near the market in a slum neighborhood, Rei kept his eyes on the crowds. Many were buying and selling clothing, food, jewelry, but there were a few that stood out to Rei. It was not easy traveling across Asia or crossing through the countries. Being born into a life of crime, Rei witnessed many unjust and cruel acts at a young age before he decided to run away.

The leader of the Asian Mafia was none to happy that his son left and became a renegade. With mafia members all over the continent that new his face and had orders for his capture, it was a difficult for Rei. Disguising himself, he wore a short blonde wig and contacts that made his eyes appear brown. It wasn't much, but it still helped. Wearing the trending street clothes for the area, Rei checked his phone one last time to make sure he had the right address before stepping out of the alleyway.

Trying to not draw attention to himself, he made his way slowly to his destination, keeping his head down and out of sight. Turning down a narrow road and with careful searching, Rei found the place he was looking for. He walked down a short set of stairs with a door at the foot that read 'whores' in many different languages. Taking a deep breath, Rei gave two loud knocks. The door instantly opened and a scrawny, gangly looking man answered. He casted his stare up and down Rei.

"What do you want?" he asked.

"A good time, someone told me I could find it here," replied Rei, letting his more natural accent slip out.

"Eh? And a good lookin' guy like you needs to come here eh?"

"I hear the girls here are pretty good, really know what they are doing." As the man stood there with his arms crossed, Rei shrugged. "That's fine, I can figure out something else to spend my money on."

"Eh... Come in, hurry up before anyone sees." As Rei entered and the door closed behind him, he looked around the dark and empty room.

"So where are the girls?" he asked.

"Elsewhere. Here are pictures, pick one and we bring her to you," the scrawny man explained. Rei took the small stack of photos from him and took his time looking through them.

"I like this one, is she available?" he asked holding up a photo. The girl in it appeared to be the same in the pictures that were emailed to him, and she was the whole reason he was here.

"Good choice, very popular. She should be done soon if you don't mind waiting." Remaining calm, Rei nodded. "Good, you pay now," the man said with a grin as he held out his hand.

"How do I know you aren't trying to rip me off man? Least let me see her first."

"No money, no girl." Rei sighed and pulled out a small stack of money and handed it over.

"Good enough?" The man fingered through the bills and nodded.

"For one hour, this is good. Follow me," he said. Rei followed and was lead to a private dark room. Once he was left alone and the door shut, he sighed and placed his hands in his pockets. Looking towards the bed, he decided to stand and wait. Luckily, it wasn't for very long. The door opened and in walked a young girl with copper colored skin and long blue hair. She was dressed in a short thin robe and her eyes stared directly at the floor. As she reached for the sash on her robe, Rei reached out.

"No don't Ami," he said gently. The girl looked up, awe struck at the familiar voice.

"Big brother?" she questioned in hope. Rei felt such emotion tighten in his chest. He reached up and pulled off the wig, letting his own dark blue hair fall down. "Big brother!" Ami cried out in rejoice. Running to him, she threw herself against him and hugged him tightly.

"Shh Ami," Rei warned. He didn't need anyone outside catching on. With a sigh he wrapped his arms around his younger sister and hugged her tightly as well. "I am so sorry Ami... I had no idea you were in a place like this." With her blue eyes full of tears, Ami looked up at Rei.

"Are you taking me away?" she asked.

"Of course. You are coming with me to stay in New York, I am never leaving you again I swear." Pulling away from Ami, Rei knelt down and lifted up his pants leg. Strapped to his lower calf was a gun. Once free he stood up. "I don't know how messy its going to be getting out of here, but stay close Ami."

"Yes brother," she said, nodding. Opening the door, Rei was in luck once more. There only seemed to be three people working the brothel. The scrawny man who answered the door, and two other they came across making their way towards the exit. Rei took care of each of them with a single shot to the head. If there were any more, or any patrons, they didn't bother to see what was going on. They were either to busy or to afraid. Leaving the whore house, Rei quickly guided Ami through the streets. He knew they were bound to be noticed and word would quickly get back to their father. Rei needed to get himself and Ami out of the country and bound to America as soon as possible. Hearing his phone beep, Rei paused in an alleyway. It was a message from Nukha.

"Thank God," Rei sighed.

"What is it?" asked Ami.

"A friend of mine has a ride waiting for us, come on let's hurry."

-------

The journey back to New York took longer for Rei and Ami. With their father issuing an alert and demanding their return, they had to trend carefully across Europe and rely heavily on Nukha's help. Finally, they both stood in front Nyiakole's home. It was late as they were shrouded by the night sky. Trying to open the door, Rei was surprised to find that it was locked.

"Strange," he muttered to himself. "She never locked them before." Not knowing what else to do, Rei knocked loudly on the door. He had to repeat the process before he finally heard Nyiakole's voice.

"I am coming, I'm coming." The locks fumbled and clicked and then the door opened. Nyiakole stood there in shock. "Rei?" she questioned. With out another second passing, Nyiakole lunged herself at Rei and hugged him tightly. It had been over a month since she had see him, and she had missed him terribly. Surprised, Rei had to brace himself. "Where did you go? Is everything okay?" she asked. Nyiakole then noticed the girl standing next to him. "Who is this?"

"Sorry, Nyiakole... Its a long story, but, this is my sister Ami." he said. "Is it alright that we stay here?" She looked over Rei and Ami. They both seemed so exhausted.

"Of course."

"Thank you, I will get Ami into bed and I will tell you everything."

4: Chapter 4

Chapter 4:

Staring blankly down at her open book, Nyiakole felt so bored. Her elbows propped up on the table and her head was resting in her hands. Glancing up from her book, she watched Pear type furiously away on her new laptop.

"Do I really have to study right now?" she whined. Pear sighed and she reached up and rubbed her temples.

"Marruu is going to be quizzing you tomorrow over the material, I suggest you do," she answered. "But, I can't really hold you down now can I? I am just a weak human girl remember?" Pear added with a wink to Nyiakole.

"True. Well in that case I am out of here," Nyiakole said. "Rei is going to take me to the mall, I am going to pick out some clothes for Ami."

"Oh really? Well that is good, just stay safe," replied Pear as she started typing on the computer again. Closing the book, Nyiakole stood up and stretched her arms over her head.

"Alright, see you later." Walking over to the base of the stairs, Nyiakole was met with the red head Nukha.

"Well hey there Princess, where you runnin' off to?" he asked with a grin.

"Out with Rei," Nyiakole said rather flatly. The half vampire had been around for a couple days, installing a new security system, but his constant hit ons annoyed Nyiakole. Moving past him, she headed up the flights of stairs to see if Rei was still wanting to go. With a shrug, Nukha stepped down the last couple of stairs and made his way to Pear.

"How goes it Pear my dear?" he asked. "Found any weak points?" Looking up from her computer, Pear nodded.

"A few, they were difficult, but still there," she replied. Holding up a note book she continued. "I wrote the information down." On top of being charged to watch and keep track of Nyiakole by Marruu, Pear was helping Nukha test out the security system. The past few days she had been hacking into the system, sending the information to Nukha, and he would correct the programing."Did you get what I asked?"

"Right here," Nukha said as he held up a small paper bag. Setting the bag on the table beside Pear, Nukha picked up the notebook and reviewed the information."So... Do you really think, well you know?" Pear sighed. Leaning back in her chair she rubbed her hands over her face.

"I am not sure, I don't exactly know much about dragons. I don't really know how to approach her about it either." Pear said. Pulling out at chair, Nukha sat down at the table with Pear. He shrugged.

"Its a terrible thought, but its something that needs to be taken into consideration. I am sure you will figure something out," Nukha said encouragingly. Picking up Pear's pen on the table, he started to jot down notes of his own next to Pear's.

"I hope so," she added with a sigh.

"So, how is working for dragons treatin' ya?" Nukha asked curiously. Turning off her laptop and closing the screen, Pear hummed.

"Not to bad, I just kinda feel like an over paid babysitter."

"A terrible overpaid babysitter," said Nukha with a chuckle. She huffed.

"What is that suppose to mean?"

"Miss Princess is suppose to be studying and you just let her waltz out into the dangerous world. For shame," he teased, grinning. Pear rolled her eyes.

"I know where she is going and she has Rei with her."

"Even worse, letting her run off with a boy."

"Oh please," said Pear. Standing up, she picked up her laptop. "Fix the codes for the system, its tight, but still hackable."

"Perhaps we could discuss a solution over dinner tomorrow night?" suggested Nukha. "As well as a few other things, my treat."

"I think I can fit that in with my oh so busy schedule," Pear commented.

-----------

Cars flashed by, red lights were ran through, each turn brought them more closer to danger, but all the while, Nyiakole felt so safe with her arms wrapped around Rei's waist. He easily guided them through traffic on his motorcycle. On their way to the nearby mall, Nyiakole was giggling and having a great time, when she suddenly felt something lurch in her stomach.

"Oh Rei... maybe you should take it easy," Nyiakole shouted in his ear, hoping he would hear her as the air whizzed by them. He must have as he slowed down a bit but it didn't help Nyiakole's nausea. It was only a few minutes before Nyiakole tapped Rei's shoulder. "Pull over now," she said urgently. Slowing down his motorcycle even more, Rei stopped his bike in front of a small coffee shop. Nyiakole jumped off before he even turned it off and ran inside.

Concerned, Rei took off his helmet and went inside as well.Once inside, he received a few curious stares that made him feel slightly uncomfortable. Not making any eye contact, he walked through the shop to the back where the bathrooms were. Standing next to the women's door, he could hear Nyiakole retching. With a sigh, Rei knocked on the door.

"Hey you okay? I wasn't driving that wild was I?" he asked. Nyiakole didn't answer. Taking a deep breath, Rei opened the bathroom door to see Nyiakole on her knees, hunched over the toilet. Walking up behind her, Rei squatted down and placed his hands on her shoulders. "You okay?" Nyiakole shook her head. Rubbing her shoulders, Rei tried to soothe her as best as he could until she was finished. Standing up, Rei walked over to the sink. He pulled out few paper towels from the wall dispenser, wetted them and handed them to Nyiakole.

"Do you want me to get you something to drink?" he asked.

"Yeah," she muttered. "Thanks."

"Don't worry about it," Rei replied. Leaving Nyiakole to clean herself up, Rei walked back out into the shop and up to the counter.

"What can I get you sir?" asked the young barista behind the counter.

"Yeah, um, do you sell tea here?" Rei asked.

"We have hot chai tea, or iced chai tea."

"Alright, I will take hot chai tea, a vanilla iced coffee, and..." Rei trailed off as he looked at the baked goods in the glass display cabinet. "A couple of those ginger snaps cookies." Rei paid, and with his items in hand, he found a little table to sit at in an empty corner. It wasn't too long before Nyiakole came out of the bathroom and sat down next to Rei. He handed the hot tea to her.

"Drink slowly," he said. "I got some cookies, they are ginger, very easy on stomachs. For people like me at least." Referencing to humans.

"Thanks," Nyiakole said as she sipped on the tea.

"Are you feeling better?" asked Rei.

"Yeah, I will be fine. I think it may have been something I ate," said Nyiakole.

"Do you still want to go to the mall, or do you want me to take you home?"

"No," Nyiakole said with a shake of her head. "We need to get Ami things." she said. It was two nights ago Rei show up on her door step with his younger sister. After he put Ami to bed, Rei explained a few things to Nyiakole, but he was so exhausted that she didn't get the whole story. "So, how long was she kept in the brothel?" She asked. "How did she even get there?" Rei sighed as he stirred his ice coffee.

"When I ran away from my father, I was only fifteen, Ami was just four. She was already being abused and molested, so I couldn't just leave her there, but I couldn't really take care of her either. I left her with my mother's parents. It was to dangerous to visit or call her. My father doesn't really care about her, but he will do anything to get me back home, including hurting Ami. Our grandparents were suppose to be hiding her, but I guess my father found them. Its been at least two years she has been...." Rei trailed off. Looking at him, Nyiakole could see the anger in Rei's face.

"But you got her out, and she is safe now." Nyiakole said.

"But for how long?" said Rei. "My father is the leader of the whole Asian Mafia, he won't stop until he has me back home, no matter what it takes."

"Why?" Looking away, Rei sighed.

"I was suppose to succeed him, just like you are suppose to succeed your father. I would suffer through education, training, beatings, the terrible things he made me do. He kept trying to make me believe that I wanted to follow his footsteps and that it was my destiny, the reason I was born. There was so much hate and violence, and he did nothing to protect Ami... I just couldn't take it anymore. I didn't and still don't want a life like that." Rei looked up from his cup and at Nyiakole. "I see you going through the same things and it worries me Nyiakole. You were so miserable at home so you moved to another country across the ocean. You are so scared of your father and that you might lose your position as his puppet that you won't tell him what Junyaho did..."

"That is irrelevant Rei." Nyiakole said firmly. "I am not my father's puppet. I don't have to do anything, I want to. I don't want to risk losing the chance to be the first female leader of a clan."

"If you would be such a great leader Nyiakole, it wouldn't matter what Junyaho did," Rei said.

"Yes it does! It was my fault," argued Nyiakole. Rei sat his cup down firmly.

"Something like that is never, and I mean never your fault Nyiakole."

"Yes it is! I knew better, I knew not to be alone with him. And then I couldn't even protect myself? "

"You are still young and learning Nyiakole," Rei said. "Junyaho was the one who betrayed your trust as well as your father's. He should be held accountable."

"But he won't be, it will all fall on me," said Nyiakole. "And I can't change any of it until I become Queen." Sighing Rei nodded.

"Alright, well we should probably get going then."

----------

It was late in the afternoon by the time Rei and Nyiakole arrive back home. Just in time as she was starting to feel queasy once more. Getting off the bike, Nyiakole grabbed a few small bags from the side compartment.

"I am going to lay down down, the rest of the bags are for Ami. Let me know if they don't fit, or she doesn't like any of the clothes."

"Okay Nyiakole." Rei said. Stepping off the motorcycle, Rei locked it up, grabbed the bags and headed inside. While walking up the stairs to his room, Rei came across Pear.

"Did you and Nyiakole have fun?" she asked.

"I think the shopping and picking out clothes was more fun for Nyiakole then myself," Rei said with a smirk.

"I guess no matter what race, a woman loves to shop. Thanks for taking her out, I know she has been feeling kinda down."

"Yeah. Hey, do you mind checking on her? She hasn't been feeling well. I would but I am sure Ami has been worried with us being gone for so long," asked Rei.

"What do you mean not feeling well?"

"She has been feeling kinda nauseous, and she did throw up earlier today. Tell her I will make her some soup in a little while," Rei explained as he continued walking up the stairs. Pear was left standing on the stairs. Rubbing her temples, she turned and headed back up the stairs to the room she had been assigned. It was very nice. The bed was a queen size, there was a dresser with plenty of drawers, a flat screen television mounted on the wall, and she had her own bathroom. Sitting on top of the dresser was the bag Nukha had gave her earlier. Grabbing it, Pear left her room and walked to Nyiakole's. She knocked softly.

"Hey Nyiakole can I come in?" she asked.

"Yes." Pear heard from behind the door. Entering the room, Pear shut the door behind her. As expected, Nyiakole's room was a little bit more lavish. Larger bed, more furniture, a large book shelf with decor items and books. "Is everything okay Pear?" Nyiakole asked, sitting up on her bed. "I promise I will study tonight."

"Its not that," interrupted Pear. "Rei said you weren't feeling well today." Nyiakole nodded.

"Yeah, I think I ate something bad," She said. With dragons hardly ever getting sick, it was the only thing Nyiakole could think of. Pear walked over to Nyiakole's bed and sat down.

"Nyiakole, I know we have only known each other for a couple of weeks, and even though we come from different cultures, I can see us being friends. So I hope you don't think I am stepping out of line here but, what do you really know about reproduction?" Pear asked. Nyiakole sat still for a moment. She was utterly confused and caught off guard about Pear's random question.

"Do you mean, like sex and babies?" Nyiakole asked.

"Yeah."

"Well, its probably different with different races, but with dragons a female can get pregnant when she goes into heat," said Nyiakole with a blush on her face. "A couple of months later she has a baby."

"Is that it? Do know anything about what the female's body goes through, or anything about the gestation? Signs and symptoms of pregnancy?" asked Pear. Nyiakole was silent for a few moments before she shook her head.

"Not really, I..." Nyiakole paused as she looked at Pear. "...wait, you don't think I am..."

"Its a possibility Nyiakole, and you need to make sure," said Pear. She held up the bag in her hand. "There is a special pregnancy test in here for dragons. Just go into the bathroom and follow the instructions." Taking the bag from Pear, Nyiakole sat on the bed. She was suppose to be to young to be pregnant, which was why she didn't know much about it. But, what would she do if she was? Standing up, Nyiakole slowly walked to the bathroom and shut the door.

Taking out the test, she read the instructions, but they didn't make sense to her. Everything was just a whirlwind in her mind. Taking a deep breath and calming herself, Nyiakole convinced herself that it was just not possible. Following the instructions, she set the test stick on the counter and walked out of the bathroom.

"It will take five minutes," Nyiakole told Pear. She sat down on the bed and fiddled with the hem of her shirt. "Why do you think I am pregnant?" Nyiakole asked.

"Well I don't know all the details, but you were raped, so there is a possibility. And you have been feeling sick, that can be a symptom," explained Pear. Not saying another word, Nyiakole remained silent until time was up.

"Can you check?" Nyiakole asked.

"Sure." Getting up, Pear walked into the bathroom and looked down at the test. Double checking the results with the information sheet inside the box, Pear sighed and walked back into the bedroom. "It says positive," she told Nyiakole gently.

"That means... That I am?"

"Yeah." Pear said with a nod. Nyiakole stood up angrily.

"What the hell? How could this happen? I am not even old enough!"

"Nyiakole calm down," Pear said gently. Nyiakole shook her head and placed her hands over her face. She felt tears push against the back of her eyes.

"Can you... Just leave me alone for awhile?" asked Nyiakole.

"Sure." Walking to the door, Pear opened it before looking back at Nyiakole. "Rei wanted me to tell you, he is going to make you some soup later," she said before she walked out of the room and closed the door. Nyiakole sat back down on the bed and laid back. Why was this happening? As if things couldn't get any worse. Wiping away her tears, Nyiakole placed her hands on her stomach. Just the thought that Junyaho had impregnated her made her feel so sick to her stomach. Unable to stop herself, she cried.

Nyiakole wasn't sure how long she laid there, but eventually her sobs turned into sniffles. Hearing a quick rapt on the door before it was opened, Nyiakole wiped her face and sat up to see Ami wearing one of the dresses she had bought early. Even though she had been nervous and shy, she had such excitement on her face. The dress was a soft yellow with white poka dots and a green flower like design on the hem.

"Big brother said I should show you. Thank you so much Nyiakole, its so pretty!" Ami said with glee. She spun around, showing off how the dress fitted. Stopping she noticed Nyiakole's red eyes and wet face. "Are you okay Nyia?"

"Yeah. It looks really good on you Ami," Nyiakole said with a smile. As she wiped her face more, Rei walked in holding a bowl of soup.

"Delicious food has arrived, and no, this is not from a can," Rei said. He set the bowl on the nightstand. "Its still pretty hot. Did Ami thank you?" he asked looking towards his younger sister.

"Yes she did, thanks for the soup Rei. I am still not feeling well, so if you both don't mind, I just want to rest."

"Is everything okay Nyiakole? What's wrong? Have you been crying?" Rei asked, noticing her upset expression. Nyiakole sighed and lowered her head to stare at the floor. "Ami, why don't you head back to our room and let Nyiakole and I talk."

"Okay, hope you feel better Nyia," Ami said and left.

"Nyiakole what is going on?" Rei asked once more.

"Look in the bathroom," was all Nyiakole could manage. Giving Nyiakole a curious stare, Rei walked into the bathroom and the first thing he noticed was the pregnancy test and instructions siting on the counter. He was shocked. Picking up the instructions he read how to read the results before glancing at the test.

"Your.... Pregnant?" he asked in disbelief. Nyiakole just nodded as she placed her hands over her face again. Leaving the bathroom, Rei could only stare at Nyiakole. It was so hard to wrap his mind around. Finally sitting on the bed next to her, Rei wrapped his arms around the young dragon. "I am sorry."

"Don't be, you didn't do this," Nyiakole sniffled out.

"I know, but, you shouldn't have to even be going through all of this," he said softly.

"I don't know what to do. I am scared."

"Don't worry, we will get through this and get it figured out," Rei said in comfort. "I am here for you Nyiakole. Its going to be okay." 

5: Chapter 5

Chapter 5:

"The Magic Shack?" Rei asked questionably. The old and beat up metal sign sat on top of an old small building. Away from the busy inner city, Pear had lead Rei to the outskirts and into a low class neighborhood.

"I know, corny name," Pear replied. Opening the door, she walked inside followed by Rei. The inside was dark and dingy. Old red curtains covered the windows. The numerous shelves held magic trick sets and gag gifts. Sitting behind check out desk was an older woman. Her gray hair was pulled up into a bun and thick, round glasses sat upon her nose. As she looked up at Pear and Rei, a smirk formed across her weathered face.

"Well I haven't seen you in awhile," she said, her voice rough and scratchy. Pear smiled.

"Yeah, been busy," replied Pear. Walking up to the counter, she leaned against it. "I really need some information. I don't want to check the library, most of what they have is just make believe nonsense. Is it alright if I take a look down stairs?" The elderly woman hummed as she tapped her pen against the table.

"I suppose I don't mind. You are usually good natured, not like these ill will teens running around trying to put hexes on each other," she said. She then looked at Rei questioningly.

"He's good, trust me," Pear said.

"Alright, you know where to go," she said with a wave of her hand, shooing the two away.

"Thanks Anita, come on Rei." Walking to the back of the store, Pear pulled back a red curtain to reveal a door. Opening it, there was a twisted stone stair case that would curve back and forth from left to right as it lead down. This was all very strange to Rei, but he followed Pear regardless. The stairs were long and lead them deep under the shop until they came to another door. This one large, round and made from old gray stone. Pushing the door open and stepping inside, Pear and Rei found themselves in a circular room. Shelves were built into the walls and were filled with all sorts of books. There was a small table with two chairs in the center.

"Okay," Pear said. "Start looking, find anything that has information about dragons in it." Striding over to one of the shelves, Pear looked through a few titles before she started picking out books.

"Right," Rei said. He picked a different shelf and started skimming through the books. "How do you even know about this place?"

"Its a well known secret in the magic community," Pear explained as she set some books on the table.

"You know magic?" asked Rei. "I thought you were human." Pear blushed, but nodded.

"I am human, so I guess you can consider me as a witch. I am no expert spell caster, but I do have a good knack for it." Sitting down, Pear started flipping through the books. Deciding not to question Pear on her magical capabilities, Rei continued his task. Hours past and Rei was starting to get a headache from all the reading when Pear clapped her hands together.

"Hot damn I think I found something," she said with excitement. Getting up from his chair, Rei looked over her shoulder at the page. It was old and hand written, but it described dragons and pregnancies, as well as how to prevent or abort. It made Rei a little uneasy.

"Do you really think its our place to be... Concocting something like this?" he asked. "I mean, she is upset and I feel like we are imposing."

"Maybe, but Nyiakole isn't really educated in this area, I think as her friends we should at least let her know there are options. Besides, she doesn't want anyone to know and she can't exactly walk up to a clinic," Pear argued.

"Yeah," Rei sighed. "Is that all we need?"

"Yup, I just need Anita to make a copy of this." After cleaning up the books, they both headed back up the stairs. Pear walked over to the counter. "Anita, can you make a copy of these pages for me? Also, do you have any of these items?" Pear asked, pointing on the page. Taking the book from Pear, Anita gazed over the information.

"Have a friend in a bit of trouble hmm?" Anita asked in a disproving manner. Her tone made Rei frown and clench his fists.

"Yeah she was raped," Rei said, speaking up. Looking towards Rei, Anita had an enlightened look on her face.

"I see, it will take a few minutes to get everything together, just hold on." Anita walked into a small room behind the counter. Clanking and rustling could be heard as Pear and Rei waited silently. It took nearly fifteen minutes, but finally Anita emerged from the room with a large tote in hand. "There ya go sweetie, everything you will need and copies of the pages are in there as well." Setting the tote on the counter, Anita began to scribble in a book laying on the counter. "One magic kit," she said with a wink. "That'll be three twenty nine." Pear reached into her pocket and pulled out her wallet. Opening it, she pulled out a few bills.

"Here is three hundred and fifty, keep the change Anita, thanks so much," said Pear. Taking the tote off the counter, she nodded to Rei, "Alright let's go."

"Thanks sweetie, come back any time," Anita called out as the two left.

-----------

Staring blankly at her television, Nyiakole watched a band of toys try to find their way back home to be loved and cherish by their owner. While it wasn't her usual choice, Nyiakole was left to watch Ami while Rei and Pear went out to run errands. Laying down on the bed next to her, Ami seemed to be enchanted by the childish movie. Nyiakole had discovered the girl was fourteen, however she acted much younger then that. Perhaps because she didn't know any better.

"Brother says you are a dragon, is that true?" Ami asked, looking over at Nyiakole.

"Yes it is," Nyiakole said.

"You don't look like a dragon," Ami commented.

"No, not right now. Its hard to blend into society being a large scaly beast," Nyiakole explained with a giggle, amused by Ami's curiosity.

"Can you breath fire?"

"Fire is my element, so I can do more then just breath it. I can create it and manipulate it," Nyiakole explained.

"Element?" Ami questioned. Nyiakole sat up and looked down at her.

"A few dragons can breath fire, but most dragons have their own element they can create and control. For example, my teacher Marruu. His element is water. He is able to breath fire, but only for a short while, where as I can as much as want until it just exhausts me. He also can't create fire or manipulate it, instead he can use and manipulate water. He can even freeze it and unfreeze it," Nyiakole said. "Its rare, but some dragons don't have an element to control, they may have a venomous bite, poison dripping claws or even scales like steel."

"Wow, that sounds so cool," Ami said with a grin.

"Here, sit up, I will show you," Nyiakole instructed. Once Ami was sitting up across from her, Nyiakole held her hands out a few inches from her chest. Rotating her wrists and holding her palms up, there was a small flicker before a flame appeared. As the flame danced in Nyiakole's, Ami watched in amazement.

"Wow Nyiakole," said Ami as she reached out.

"Ami don't," Nyiakole warned. She tried to disperse the flame, couldn't in time. Touching the flame, Ami yanked back her hand as the fire singed her skin.

"Ow!" she cried out.

"Here Ami, let me see," Nyiakole said, holding out her hand. Ami was hesitant, but she held out her hand. Taking it gently into her own, Nyiakole looked at the burnt flesh on Ami's fingertips. "It wasn't some trick Ami, it was real fire."

"Sorry," she muttered, embarrassed.

"Its okay Ami, just relax." Covering Ami's fingers with her hands, Nyiakole softly whispered. After a few seconds she released Ami's hand. To the young girl's surprise, her burns were healed. She wiggled her fingers and smiled at Nyiakole.

"Thanks Nyia."

"You are welcome Ami," Nyiakole said. Hearing a knock on the door, Nyiakole looked over to see Rei and Pear walking into her room.

"Brother you're back!" Ami grinned as she scrambled off the bed. Running to Rei, she embraced him tightly. Rei laughed and hugged his sister back.

"Yeah I am back. Come on, Pear needs to talk to Nyiakole alone okay."

"Okay, bye Nyia," Ami said with a small wave.

"See you later Ami, we will finish the movie, I promise," Nyiakole said. Once the two left, she glanced over at Pear. "What do you need to talk about?"

"Its about yesterday," Pear said, bringing up the discovery of Nyiakole's pregnancy. "I know you haven't had much time to, process that your pregnant, but I... I just want you to know that you don't have to be stuck with it. You have choices you know."

"What do you mean?" asked Nyiakole. Pear walked over to Nyiakole as handed her the information she found earlier.

"You don't have to stay pregnant. I can make you a potion that will make you miscarry, that is, only if you want to," explained Pear. Nyiakole looked from Pear to the sheet of paper. She briefly read over it, and sighed, handing it back to Pear.

"You know how to make this? This is a brewing potion, its witchcraft."

"Yes..." Pear said. "I usually don't dabble in potion making, mostly just minor spells, but it is something I can do." Nyiakole was a little surprised that Pear knew magic. "Yes, that would make me a witch." Pear said, reading Nyiakole's expression. It was a choice she didn't want to make, but what choice did she have? She can't hide this from her family, what would she do when the baby actually arrives?

"Is it going to make me sick?"

"You won't feel sick, but you might have some pains. It shouldn't last very long."

"Alright," Nyiakole said softly. "Make me the potion."

"Okay, I will bring it up in a few hours." After Pear left, Nyiakole laid back on her bed. Letting out a sigh, she started to feel tears trying to escape her eyes. Nyiakole took a deep breath to calm her emotions. She just found out yesterday that she was pregnant with Junyaho's offspring, so she didn't have much time to think about it, other then staying up all last night worrying about what she was going to do. Before Pear told her about the potion, she didn't have an option. Now was she making the right choice?

-------------

Walking down to the bar, Nukha was hit hard in the face with a terrible, pungent odor. The smell made him cough and gag slightly. Calming his stomach, he walked down the last couple of steps. Sitting at the bar was Rei with his shirt pulled up over his nose.

"What in hell's name is the awful smell?" Nukha asked as he pulled his shirt up above his nose as well. Now down in the bar, the smell was so much stronger. Placing his hand on the wall to support himself as he hunched over, he starting gaging again. "Its so bad... Its like rotten eggs baking next to a dead animal." Rei glanced over at Nukha.

"Didn't know you were stopping by today Nukha, Pear is in the kitchen brewing up something," he explained.

"For what?"

"Everyone just calm down, the smell will be gone in a few minutes okay," Pear huffed out as she stepped out of the kitchen. Her long brown hair was pulled back and she had a gray handkerchief tied around her mouth and nose. Her gray eyes them seemed surprised as saw Nukha. "What are you doing here?"

"Dinner?" Nukha said. "We were going out tonight, remember?" Pear reached up and slapped her forehead.

"Ugg, I am so sorry. I completely forgot! Give me like, thirty minutes please," Pear begged. Nukha nodded and sat down next to Rei.

"However long you need," Nukha said before coughing more.

"Okay thanks, sorry about the smell, it will be gone soon I promise," Pear said. She headed back into the kitchen, leaving the guys sitting at the bar.

"Dude, what the hell?" Rei asked, giving Nukha a hard glare.

"What?" Nukha replied.

"Taking Pear out?"

"So?" Nukha said defensively.

"So, she has been doing a lot of work around here and helping Nyiakole, and I know how you are with women," Rei said.

"Oh here we go with the jealousy thing again. You are just mad, that once again asked a girl out and you don't have the guts to ask one," Nukha said slyly.

"I am not jealous, just...just don't start drama around here, we already have enough."

"What is that suppose to mean?"

"You know exactly what that means. Your habit of one night stands can cause tension around here if you continue," Rei explained with a roll of his green eyes.

"You are just worried if I make Pear upset, then your little girlfriend will be upset..."

"She isn't my girlfriend, but yes, Nyiakole is going through a lot and we are all trying to help, we don't need a new bumps in the road."

"I get it, I get it, alight," said Nukha. Taking a breath, he realized the foul stench in the air was gone. Pulling down his shirt from his face, Nukha sighed. "Fresh air." Rei pulled down his shirt as well.

"Thank God," he muttered. The door to the kitchen swung open and Pear walked carefully out holding a cup of dark, hot liquid. Appearance wise, it looked like coffee.

"I will be right back Nukha, then we can leave," said Pear. She carefully made her way up the stairs and to Nyiakole's room. With a quick knock, she opened the door and stepped in. "Alright,here it is." Setting down a book she was reading, Nyiakole looked at the cup questioningly as Pear set it on her night stand.

"So I just drink it?" Nyiakole asked. Pear nodded.

"Yes, you need to do so while its still hot," she explained. "I would stay, but I forgot I had planned on going to dinner with Nukha, he is waiting for me down stairs.

" "Well, go on, I think I can handle drinking a cup." With a smile, Pear headed out the door. Getting up from her bed, Nyiakole picked up the cup and stared down at it. She kept telling herself to drink it, but her arms just wouldn't budge. Was this what she wanted? The question kept whirling around in her mind. Junyaho had violated her, abused her trust and left her with this thing growing inside her. But this thing, it was apart of her as well. This was her baby too. Her baby. Clutching the cup tightly, Nyiakole walked to the bathroom. Tipping the cup, she poured the brew down the sink. She didn't know how she would manage, but she would tell no one that she didn't drink the potion.

--------------

Sitting on the bathroom floor, Nyiakole held her stomach as she rested her head against the wall. It had been a little over two weeks and it was getting harder and harder to hide the fact that she was still pregnant from everyone. Her stomach was not as flat as it use to be, making her clothes not fit as well. And then there were moments like this. Everyone had decided to go out to dinner tonight and just have a good time. Rei, Ami, Pear and Nukha were all waiting on Nyiakole to "finish getting ready" for the evening. Feeling her stomach lurch around more, Nyiakole leaned forward. She got upon her knees to hunch over to the toilet and started to retch. Once Nyiakole finished, she rinsed her mouth out with mouthwash and washed her face.

Walking out of her bathroom, she gasped as she a large figure was sitting on her bed. Getting over the initial shock of the unexpected, Nyiakole then sighed as it was her eldest brother, Lander. His tall daunting appearance nearly matched her father's. A deep scar traveled from one side of his face, across his nose and to the other side, while another deep and jagged scar ran down his jaw line from his ear to his chin. Nyiakole knew he even had burn scars all over his scalp, but she never seen them since he always wore a beanie.

"What are you doing here Lander?" she asked. Her brother huffed as he gaze at her with a firm scowl.

"Father wanted me to check on you. Since you haven't been keeping in touch," He said in a gruff tone. He eyed Nyiakole in a way that made her feel uncomfortable. "You sick?" he asked "I heard you puking." Nyiakole sighed

"No, I think its some human food I ate, its not settling with me" she explained. Lander held his unnerving gaze.

"Right," he said. Nyiakole didn't like the way her brother looked at her. He was the eldest of her five older brothers. Following Lander there was Brinnon, Skylor, Kuybri and then Arson. Nyiakole was her father's youngest child and only daughter. She had always gotten along best with Arson, and even though the title of heir was taken from Lander and given to her, he always seemed to tolerate her. He would even give her tips and advice. Her other three brothers were the ones she had to keep an eye out for. They disliked her, and the way their father treated her. Nyiakole just felt so strange as she cleared her throat.

"Do you want anything? Like to drink or something?" she asked. Lander did a quick nod.

"A bottle of whiskey please," he said. Nyiakole nodded.

"Sure," she said. As she walked down the hall, Nyiakole past by Rei and Ami as they were leaving their room.

"Hey you almost ready?" Rei asked.

"Just about, my brother stopped by. Not sure what he wants, but it shouldn't take long," Nyiakole explained.

"Alright, we will be waiting."

Once his sister left the room, Lander took out a cell phone and immediately called his father. "Yes sir I am over here" he said. "I think you need to come over, it seems she has been hiding something," Lander explained. On the other end of the phone Lander could hear King Brixinoxx sigh with aggravation and then a click. His father had hung up. But not in a moment's time did he appear in the room, transported by powerful magic. Both stood in silence as they waited for Nyiakole to return. The anger that emitted from his father made Lander's stomach feel uneasy. Walking into the room with a small bottle of whiskey, Nyiakole felt panic grip her chest at seeing her angry father.

"Hey, what is going on?" Nyiakole asked nervously as her father glared harshly down at her.

"How long did you think you could fucking hide this from everyone, from me?" he hissed out. Nyiakole felt as if she couldn't breath.

"Hide what?" asked Nyiakole. Before she could take another breath, her father flung out his hand, striking his daughter across the face. She yelped and dropped the bottle as she clutched the side of her face. The glass shattered and the booze splashed across the hardwood floors. Nyiakole tried to fight back the tears as she looked at her father.

"You are fucking knocked up that is what!" her father hissed out her angrily. As soon as his daughter walked into the room he could sense the other life growing inside her. "Who's little bastard child are you shamefully carrying, you unmated whore. Who's?"

"Mine," Nyiakole said hesitantly. Her father growled. Reaching out and grabbing Nyiakole by the shoulder's he picked her up and gave her a shake.

"Don't test me!" he yelled at her "Who have you been fucking around with?" Nyiakole looked up at her father fearfully.

"No one, I swear!" Nyiakole cried out. Her heart started racing wildly. As her father clenched his teeth together and deeply growled, she could see his large, menacing fangs. His grip on her tighten, making Nyiakole whined. "Junyaho, its Junyaho's. He forced me," Nyiakole finally admitted.

"You little...." he growled. "...little worthless piece of my life!" Dropping Nyiakole, she stumbled and fell backwards. He then waved his hand as if dismissing everything. He needed to leave, he felt like killing her he was so frustrated. "I can't even look at you" he spat out. He looked to his eldest son Lander "You take care of this!" Nyiakole looked up at her father. He had been mad at her before, almost seething, but never anything like this. She was truly afraid for herself.

"Tiyar..." she choked out, using the dragonic word for father. "...I....I..." she stuttered, unable to find the word she wanted. Brixinoxx glared back at his youngest offspring. He pointed his finger at her.

"Unless you take care of this little shameful problem of yours, I never want to see your disgraceful face again understand!" Without letting her say another word, Brixinoxx vanished to leave his daughter in the temporary care of his son. Nyiakole felt another wave of tears threatening to leak out of her green eyes as she looked up at Lander, who had a firm expression on his face. He knew his father would be angry, but he didn't think it would be so severe.

"Why...?" Nyiakole asked "Why do I have to get rid of my baby?" Lander sighed.

"Because you are the one who got into this situation Nyiakole, you really need to think, is all this worth everything you worked hard to get? Is it worth just the throw it all away?" Lander asked calmly, hoping to push from sense into his sister. "Look, if you don't, you are just letting Junyaho get what he wants, you would be admitting to our race, along to the world, you are to weak to oppose him, and are unfit to be anything else but his whore," Lander said. He reached down to his boot where he pulled out a large curved dagger and handed it to Nyiakole. "Junyaho has tricked you, shamed you, humiliated you, this is your chance to strike back at him," he said. Standing up, Nyiakole took the dagger from her brother. She looked at the sharp gleaming blade. It all seemed so simple, but it wasn't.

"I can't. I won't," she said angrily. Lander scoffed down at his little sister.

"Are you really going to throw it all away? Are you really going to go rogue to have a brat that was sired from a bastard who raped you?" He said, in shock. He couldn't believe his sister would forsake everything. He turned his head away from his sister "I guess you really are weak" he said. "Perhaps it is best it you leave the clan," he said. Nyiakole shed a few more tears and at hearing her own brother call her weak made her chest swell with anger and her fists clenched as she closed her eyes.

"I ..am not ...weak!" she nearly shouted out. "Just because I don't do what is expected of me, or what the world wants me to do," she said. "If anything I am stronger than the rest of you! I am not submitting to anyone's will! I will do what is best for me and not for you or my father's name which should be the one that is forsaken!" Nyiakole spat out. "I don't care if I have to live in exile!"

"Goodbye then, little sister," Lander said. Without another word, he vanished in a swift swirl of magic. Nyiakole stood there for a moment before slowly sitting down on her bed. Just like that, it was over and she had nothing. Tears started to slip down her face as she turned her gaze to the floor. Cast out of her family clan and exiled from her race. It was everything she feared and worse. Why? She didn't do anything wrong. Tears streamed down her face as she looked down at the knife in her hand. Why shouldn't she? She had nothing else to live for. Pressing the blade against the skin of her wrist, Nyiakole felt her gut wretch. All she had to do was just one slice, on each arm and everything would just go away, simple. Her hands shook and she almost couldn't breath. She kept mentally telling herself to just do it, just do it. And she did. Nyiakole took a breath and pulled the sharp blade over her wrist. The open wound instantly stung as blood began to pour out, running down her hand and dripping on the floor. With a shaky hand, she sliced her other.

A few rooms down, Pear was double checking her make up looked decent in the mirror when she had heard the shouting. After a few minutes, there was quiet. Wanting to check on Nyiakole, Pear left her room and walked down the hall to Nyiakole's door. She knocked gently. Not hearing a response, Pear knocked once more, still nothing. She touched the door knob, finding the door was unlocked. Opening the door Pear was shocked at what she found. Nyiakole was sitting on her bed, blood was everywhere and a knife was in her hand.

"Nyiakole... what the hell oh my Gods" she said. Nyiakole had tears streaming heavily down her face as she sobbed. Pear didn't give Nyiakole a chance to explain as she ran over to the girl and picked her up to her feet. Pulling her into the bathroom, she turned on the sink faucets, trying to wash away the blood so she could see the wounds more clearly. Blood was smearing everywhere, on Pear, clothes, the white counter tops. All the while Nyiakole was protesting and trying to pull away, sobbing out things Pear didn't understand.

"Rei! Rei!! Get in here now!" Pear shouted, figuring she needed help desperately. "REI!!!" she called out once more trying to get Nyiakole's hands under the water. Standing down stairs in the empty main level with Nukha and Ami, Rei heard Pear shouting for him. Knowing, Nyiakole's brother had been up stairs with her, fear swelled up in him that something terrible had happened.

"Ami stay here," Rei ordered firmly as he dashed up the stairs. He ran down the hall to Nyiakole's room. The door was already open. Stepping in he saw the blood on the floor next to her bed and the trail going into the bathroom. Moving quickly, he saw Pear struggling to rinse off all the blood on Nyiakole's arms. Helping her, He got behind Nyiakole, grabbing her arms near the elbow and pushing them under the running water. Once the thick blood was washed away both could see the deep, self inflicted gashes.

"What the hell are you doing?" Rei couldn't help but shout at Nyiakole "Why did you do this? Why?" Nyiakole who was still sobbing shook her head. As Rei held her hands under the water, it gave Pear enough time to inspect them.

"They are too deep for me to heal, we have to get her to a hospital," she told Rei. He felt anger and hurt deep within him.

"You know magic Nyiakole, heal yourself!" He demanded.

"No... I don't want... to," she managed to choke out.

"I said heal yourself!" Rei said firmly, holding his ground. Nyiakole let out a few heavy breaths as she felt like she was about to lose herself.

"...No..." she tried to repeat.

"DO IT!" Rei shouted at her. Nyiakole started sobbing more, but the next words that came out of her mouth were the magical words that would heal her injured flesh. The cuts softly glowed red as the blood stopped, the flesh and tissue began to mesh back together like nothing ever happened. Once Rei was sure the wounds were healed, He spun Nyiakole around to face him. He placed both hands on the side of her face as he tilted her head up to make her look at him.

"Why did you do this Nyiakole? Why? Tell me!" he demanded. Nyiakole sniffled. Her eyes were red and her face wet.

"...My father.... he .... I have been... exiled..." she said. Rei looked concerned. Nyiakole was the heir to her father's name, the leader of her clan, what reason did he have to exile her?

"Nyiakole.... why?" he asked. His eyes softening. Nyiakole's bottom lip quivered. Looking away she almost seemed ashamed. "You are still pregnant aren't you?"

"I am." she said between breaths. "... And I am not going to get rid of it" she explained further. Rei was shocked further, however he gently wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. He felt like she didn't deserve any of this.

"Oh Nyiakole, I am sorry," he said. Pear couldn't believe what she had heard either.

"Nyiakole, why did you lie?" she said placing her hand on the dragon's shoulder. Nyiakole shook her head.

"I didn't want anyone to think less of me. It just didn't feel right, I couldn't," she said as she felt the tears start to form again. Rei rubbed his hand up and down her back.

"No one is going to think less of you Nyiakole, its your choice. We support you either way," said Pear.

"Why can't my father, why did he have to..."

"Shhh Nyiakole, it will be alright. Pear and I will do everything we can to help you," Rei said.

"I am sorry I ruin dinner."

"Its fine, I will just order some pizzas. Come on, let's get you cleaned up and you are going to stay with Ami and I tonight alright?" Nyiakole nodded as she reached up and wiped her face. "And no more of this Nyiakole, I mean it," he said.

6: Chapter 6

Chapter 6:

"I knew she was raped, but sir, I did not know she was pregnant," said Marruu as he stood in front of Brixinoxx. He had been escorted to the King's office and barred from leaving by Hinar and Phaer as they guarded the door. All three dragons were known as the Akai, the hands of the King. They ensured the clan ran smoothly and upheld the King's rule while each having their own duties and tasks everyday to attend to. Leading the Akai was Marruu. Falling into rank after Marruu was Hinar. Tall with broad shoulders, his dark brown hair was cut in a military fashion. Phaer was more on the tall, lankey side. Sporting a light blue mohawk, he had a jagged scar over his left eye and was missing his last two fingers on his left hand.

"Why wasn't I told!" Brixinoxx angrily demanded, slaming his large fist on the surface of his desk. Marruu stood in place and kept a firm expression.

"Nyiakole didn't wish for me to say anything, and I had her well being in mind," Marruu answered.

"Last time I checked, you report to me, not her!" Brixinoxx shouted. "If you had done your job properly perhaps she wouldn't be such a big fucking waste of time!"

"She is only a waste of time because you made it so!" Marruu commented harshly. As the King scowled, Marruu continued. "I spent the last sixteen years, teaching her, raising her, all the bullshit you should have been doing! She is skilled and intelligent, she didn't have to be exiled!"

"She knew better, I will not have such trash in my house, or as my legacy," Brixinoxx roughly growled. Inhaling sharply, Marruu tried to calm himself.

"Yet your own son Arson is illegitimate, and hasn't Skylor knocked up a few maids around here? You know what kind of dragon Junyaho is and yet you still pushed your daughter to him! Its not like Nyiakole was going to take the throne tomorrow, in a couple hundred years none of this would even matter!" Marruu huffed out. Glaring at Marruu with his piercing, dark red eyes, Brixinoxx growled deeply.

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The past three days had been an exhausting one for Rei. With Nyiakole having random sobbing fits, trying to comfort her, making sure sharp objects were out of sight, Rei was also taking care of Ami and things around the their home. Pear would help as well. She would clean up, wash clothes and would keep Nyiakole company if he wasn't around. Standing behind the bar counter Rei looked through a pile of bills. Even though emotions and stress was high, there was one thing that needed to be figured out. How were they all going to continue to live here financially.

Even though she owned it, Nyiakole was now cut off from any of funds associated with her family name. So far it seemed that her father wasn't going to try and kick them out of the building, but they needed to somehow bring in money to keep the lights on and food on the table. Nyiakole was glad they all decided to stay and help. They really seemed to care about her, and perhaps they didn't really have anywhere else to go. With Pear and Ami sitting next to her at the bar, Nyiakole drummed her hands against the surface as Rei scribbled all sorts of numbers on paper. Ami was helping Pear sort through another stack of bills and expenses.

"Is it safe to say we can cut out the three thousand dollar satellite bill?" Pear asked as she looked over the bill. She also gave Nyiakole a look that read 'I can't believe you spend this much money to watch television'.

"...Its international non human channels...." Nyiakole said a bit defensively. The package covered a lot of things that the typical American Human didn't have access to. Nyiakole sighed and nodded "I don't watch much television anyway," she said. Rei kept scribbling. He sighed and rubbed his face with his hands.

"There is still a lot of expense here, and with no money coming in... I don't know how we can all stay here," he said. "Maybe it would be better to try and find some place else cheaper to live Nyiakole. You do have a baby on the way, you are going to have to be able..." Rei started to trail off. Nyiakole was looking down and there was such a depressed air around her. He caught a look from his sister as she reached over and placed her hand on Nyiakole's shoulder. He knew how upset she was over it, but there was a reality factor. A baby was going to arrive.

"Sorry," Rei finally said after the awkward silence in the air hung around for far too long.

"I will find something somehow," Nyiakole said. Crossing her arm on the counter, she laid her head down and sighed.

"Don't worry Nyiakole, we will all figure something out," Ami said in her quiet voice as she rubbed Nyiakole back. Everyone became quiet as the soft thunks of footsteps casually came down the stairs. No one was expecting anybody, especially the person who came down the steps. Nyiakole's stomach twisted up in knots as she looked at at Junyaho. How did she not expect this? No longer being under her father's protection, he could just barge in here at will. Before he could say anything, Rei had pulled out his pistol and aimed it at Junyaho's head.

"That is close enough!" Rei said harshly. "What the fuck are you doing here?" he demanded. Junyaho didn't even flinch.

"Put that away before you hurt yourself," Junyaho said casually in his smooth voice. "I am not here to cause any riffraff, I would like to talk to Nyiakole," he explained. Turning her head away, Nyiakole refused to face him, or even make eye contact. Rei sneered.

"Excuse me? Aren't you the pompous ass that raped her? I am not backing down you disgusting pig!" Rei said as he held his ground against the older dragon. Pear was surprised that this was Lord Junyaho Tensu. She had expected him to be some old, creepy dragon, but he was the exact opposite. He was tall and handsome as his long black hair was down around his stern, cold face. His golden eye color was something she had never seen, so it was hard to look away. However, his presence gave her such a chill down her spine. Perhaps because he was so powerful and if he was to strike against them, they wouldn't stand a chance. Junyaho merely held a glare with Rei.

"The only power you have right now is that gun in your hands, I suggest you hush," he said. "Nyiakole is mine, she belongs to me and I will talk to her." Rei felt his eye twitch at being so belatedly ignored, but at this point what could he do? He lowered the gun, but kept it ready. Junyaho took a few steps forward and turned his gaze to Nyiakole. "Is it true? You are with child?" he asked in a serious manner. Nyiakole seemed to shift uncomfortably

"Junyaho... just leave... please," she said, barely above a whisper.

"Is it true?" Junyaho asked again, in a more firm tone. Nyiakole nodded her head slightly, confirming to her rapist she was pregnant with his child. Pulling something from his pocket, Junyaho held up a small black card and approached Nyiakole. He set it on the bar counter in front of her and backed away. Nyiakole eyed the card suspiciously.

"What is this?" Nyiakole asked meekly.

"Its my bank card, I added your name to my account. Use it for anything you need for yourself and around here," Junyaho explained. Rei did his best not to scoff. He thought maybe he should stay out of this, since it was between Nyiakole and Junyaho, but he couldn't.

"What the hell Junyaho?" he asked through gritted teeth. Glancing over at Rei, Junyaho remained calm.

"It is my child brewing in her gut," he said before looked back at Nyiakole. "I know about your family outcasting you and the idea of you trying to raise my child in the shadows, scrapping by disgusts me. The reality is, it my fault, I am going to take responsibility for this and provide for you and my offspring." Explained Junyaho. Everyone had a hard time believing that there was any good intention behind Junyaho's actions. The one who was shocked most of all was Pear. It seemed the dragons ways of dealing with things were nothing like she had ever seen. Normally a human girl would have to chase a man halfway around the world to help around with a baby, let alone getting the funds to provide. Here it had only been three days of discovering the pregnancy and Junyaho was practically handing Nyiakole everything she would ever need. Silence filled the air, no one said anything.

"You don't have to use it, but it eases my mind knowing you have it, just in case," he said. "Well I know how unwelcome I am here, so I will take my leave." Without other word, Junyaho turned on his heel and made his way back up the stairs, leaving everyone in stunned silence. Crossing across the dusty floors of the main level, Junyaho exited Chaotic Nights. The sun was high up above as he strolled away. Just as Junyaho rounded the corner a large figure jumped out from the shadows. In his hands was a large shotgun which was fired. Aimed at Junyaho's stomach, a shower of golden pellets ricocheted off a blue barrier that appeared.

Always taking precautions, he previously placed the barrier around him that warded off golden bullets. He knew Rei had a gun with such bullets. The barrier flickered blue over Junyaho before it shimmered out of existence. Junyaho looked up at the tall brute. He had an insane grin. Long white, wild hair surrounded his face in a messy fashion. His eyes were solid white, no visible iris or pupil were present. Taller then Junyaho, the man was tanned and shirtless, showing off a physique most body builders would be jealous off.

"Hi," he said with the grin still plastered on his face. Junyaho raised an eye brow as he slowly recognized who was standing before him.

"Hello... Mocsha. Please, explain to me, why you are lurking around here with a gun?" asked Junyaho. He chuckled deviously.

"Just an itchy trigger finger is all, go on, don't mind me at all," he said. Simply as that, the brute walked past Junyaho. The Dragon Lord watched him walk by. Keeping to his business and not being the intended target, Junyaho was about to press on when he saw the the brute turn to walk into the building Nyiakole lived.

"Now I see." With a soft sigh, he turned around and headed back. Once inside the dusty main room, the monstrous man called Mocsha heard the voices down the stairs. Not wanting to waste any time, he quickly made his way down. With only a few steps left to go, he jumped. Upon landing he held up his gun he spotted the group sitting at the bar. Hearing the stomping coming down the stairs, Rei looked up just in time to see the big brute appear at the bottom and aim the shotgun.

"Ah! There you are!" he said. Rei reached over the bar where Nyiakole was sitting, he grabbed her arm. Pear leaned over and wrapped her arms around Ami. Muttering a few words, they vanished from sight just as Rei yanked Nyiakole over. Pushing her down to the floor, he covered her as pieces of the counter started to explode from the gun shots. As bits and chunks of the counter splattered around the bar. Appearing upstairs in Rei's room, Ami blinked and looked around as she pulled away from Pear.

"Wait... how... you know magic?" she squeaked out, looking up at Pear. She nodded and pressed her fingers to her lips.

"Yes, now stay quiet," Pear said. "That man down there is a demon," Pear explained to Ami. She was certain she had seen the man's face on the PRIME's watch out list. Ami let out a small gasp as she covered her mouth.

"But.... but, what about big brother and Nyiakole?" she asked in a hushed whisper. Pear stayed quiet for a moment, she seemed conflicted. Even though she could use magic, she was still simply a human.

"Stay here, hide, I will try and do what I can," she said. Pear then left Ami in Rei's room as she headed out and back down. Going down the steps to the main level, Pear spotted Junyaho stride across the dusty floor and headed down to where she could hear the fight going on. Down in the bar, crouching behind the counter, Rei still tried to shield Nyiakole from the shots Mocsha was pumping out from his gun. Reaching behind him, Rei pulled out his gun. Taking the safety off, he took a small breath and quickly raised up just enough to look over the counter and aim. The trigger was pulled and a golden bullet hit Mocsha right between his solid white eyes. Mocsha's head whips back as he falls down. Rei took this moment to glance around to see that Pear and Ami was gone. Good. He thought. While Rei was focused on his shot, a transparent blue shield flickered over Nyiakole before disappearing from the air. Nyiakole then disappeared herself, becoming invisible. A terrible chill goes down Rei's spine as he hears Mocsha speak.

"Ha.... nice shot!" his demonic voice cooed out. Rei's eyes widen as Mocsha slowly sat up still sporting his demonic grin. The bullet wound on his head was slowly closing as it healed. "Come on now, just save me the trouble and hand me the girl," he said. Rei let out a growl as he gritted his teeth. Nyiakole cringed at hearing that this monster was after her. Rei then proceeded to unload the entire clip of his gun at Mocsha. Every bullet hit, but Mocsha didn't even flinch. Hearing the gun shots below, Junyaho cursed under his breath as he walked down the stairs. He had created the barrier around Nyiakole as well as wove the spell that had given her invisibility. Weaving one more spell, a thick fog suddenly covered the bar room. It was so dense it was hard to see anything. Mocsha glanced around as the heavy mist appeared. Apparently he had to deal with more then just Rei now. Behind the counter, Nyiakole looked up at Rei as the fog appeared. He seemed just as confused as she was.

"Come on, to the kitchen," she whispered as she reached up and took his hand. Looking over, Rei was surprised that he couldn't see Nyiakole. He felt her hand against his and the pull as she tried to get him to follow. So he did. Hearing the two scamper behind the bar, Mocsha tried to follow and fell. Rolling onto his back, he saw that his feet where chained to the floor. The chains however was not normal. They were black and wispy, as if made from shadows. Annoyed, he let out a monstrous roar. Grabbing his shotgun, Mocsha aims it at his own feet and fires, blasting them off in a splutter of blood and bone. Turning over before his feet start to regenerate, Mocsha scampered across the ground on all fours like a beast. His blood from his amputated feet slicking the bar floor.

Being the one who created the chains, Junyaho watched Mocsha stumbled around and dismember his own feet. The demon's blood lust was starting to concern Junyaho as he watched the monstrosity go after Nyiakole and Rei once more.

"Fuck," he growled through gritted teeth. Hearing Mocsha roar and the scraping against the floor as he came towards them, Nyiakole used her invisibility to her advantage. She shoved Rei hard into the kitchen which caused him to stumble and fall onto the ground. Turning around to face Mocsha, Nyiakole stood her ground as she inhaled deeply. Through the fog, Nyiakole saw Mocsha's hand grip the counter as he lunged over it with a snarl. As he did so, Nyiakole exhaled and from her mouth spewed a large jet of flames, engulfing Mocsha. Caught off guard, Mocsha stopped, twitching in his singed flesh, and Nyiakole grinned. However, it quickly faded as she realized the invisibility spell had worn off.

Catching sight of her, Mocsha was glaring harshly down at Nyiakole. He let out a deep and gut wrenching growl and before his eyes started to change form. His burnt skin quickly healed and morphed into a dark green. Becoming more demonic, fangs appear in his twisted grin and horns grew from his head. His white hair grew and extended down his back wildly. Even his form became larger as he towered over Nyiakole, almost twice the size of her.

"Ya know, I thought this would be easy," he growled out. His voice had changed. It was deeper and more demonic, having multiple tones over lapping. "Cap the weak ass dragon, maybe mangle your corpse for fun, go home and pay the bills, but no, you fucking did it. Now I am going to have my fun and take my time with you Princess." His twisted grin made Nyiakole sick to her stomach as he reached his large hand out to grab her. Seeing Mocsha change and realizing Mocsha was reaching for Nyiakole, Rei held up his gun and fired.... nothing, he was out of bullets.

"Nyiakole get away from him!" he shouted. Seeing the danger Nyiakole and his child was in, Junyaho rushed towards Mocsha. Concentrating his energy to his hands, he took a firm stance and waved his hands. A wave of black fire burst through the air at Mocsha's back, causing the demon to roar out in anguish. With Mocsha being distracted, the back of Nyiakole's shirt rips open as two large black wings sprout from her shoulder blades. With two beats, she was safely away from Mocsha on the other side of the bar. In doing so, Nyiakole placed Junyaho between her and Mocsha. The enraged demon turned to see the Dragon Lord.

"Figures you are here protecting her. You always did like the younger pussy Junyaho," he hissed. "I heard she was carrying a bastard child. Yours?" he snarled. Charging forward, Mocsha smashes his fist against the bar counter, crushing the wood and making a large gap. Seeing Mocsha bulldoze his way to Nyiakole. Rei dashes forward with a shout. He appears in a flash in front of Mocsha to kick him in the gut to try and stall him. Mocsha grabs Rei's leg.

"Out of my way!" he shouts. Mocsha snaps the bone in Rei's leg like a twig before throwing him straight at Junyaho. The Dragon Lord was caught off guard as Rei's body was suddenly flung at his. The force of Rei's colliding body sent Junyaho sliding back, his own black wings appeared to slow them down before Junyaho hit the wall. He glanced down at Rei seeing his broken twisted leg and let out a growl. He gently set Rei against the wall, letting him support himself on it. Seeing Nyiakole felt an anger burn in her chest like something she never felt before.

Her body began to transform. Her canines grew into larger fangs. Fingers twisted and grew into large claws as black scales layered up her arms. On her feet, her toes morph into three large talons. A black horn appeared on each side of her head and swooped back. A large black, scaled tail appeared from her back side as well. Taking a wide stance, Nyiakole held out her dragonic arms. Between her hands a red orb of raw crackling energy formed and grew. With a shout, Nyiakole released the orb. Buzzing through the air with incredible speed. Mocsha turned to see the orb flying at him just in time as he crossed his arms out in front of him to protect himself. The orb hit him, but Mocsha held his ground with his insane strength. Relaxing his arms, he grinned.

"Come on, let me see more!" he called out with a demented grin. Junyaho clenched his fist. He heard a thud next to him and looked down to see Rei had slid to the floor, moaning in pain from his leg. Looking over at Nyiakole he shouts.

"Stop being stupid, get the human and get the fuck out of here!" he ordered. Nyiakole looked at Mocsha, fear was what she felt as it seemed like nothing phased him. She had training, studying and various techniques, but skills in real combat was what she lacked, she had no idea it could be like this. She tried to swallow and found that her throat was dry. She heard what Junyaho said and trying not to take her eyes off Mocsha, she made her way over to Junyaho and Rei, using her wings to add speed. She crouched down next to him and looked at his leg, assuming Junyaho had it from here. She took his arms and placed it over her shoulder as she stood up with him.

"Come on," she whispered as she started to head for the stairs. Lowering his arms, Mocsha glared at Junyaho before he realized Nyiakole was trying to leave. With a growl, the demon charged at them. With Nyiakole's help, Rei had made it to the stairs. Seeing Mocsha charge at them with inhuman speed, Rei knew is was holding Nyiakole back from escaping. This time, Rei shoved Nyiakole up the stairs before he turned and readied himself. He took a stance, bearing his weight on his unbroken leg, and concentrated.

"Shadow Tiger Technique: Hidden Fang!" he shouted. With speed to match Mocsha's Rei darted forward past Junyaho as his body was enveloped in shadow. The dark shadow consumes Mocsha as well. Many forces began to penetrate the demons body, dark thick blood began to spurt everywhere. With Rei making his own attack, Junyaho rushes to Nyiakole's side.

"Come on, you have to go!" he said. Nyiakole made no move. "He is after you! Go you dumb bitch!" he hissed. Nyiakole couldn't held but ignore Junyaho as her frighten green eyes was on Mocsha. The shadow began to disperse and things were quiet in the bar.

"...Rei?" she called out. Suddenly the demonic voice shouts out.

"I have had enough of you! Try to fucking move without them!" An atrocious tearing sound was heard as Rei's wailing and bloodcurdling screams filled the room.The shadows finally dissipated as Mocsha then turns to face the two looking more infuriated than ever. His eyes burning an empty white, his fangs monstrous as the rest of his enormous body bled tremulously. Clutched in his hand was Rei's legs with no body attached to them. Mocsha slowly stomps towards the two, ravenously approaching and ready to attack as a small green orb envelops in his hand, making a charging sound and slowly growing in size. Junyaho knew what that sound was as soon as he heard it. Not seeing much of a choice, he tried to pick Nyiakole up to abandon the fight, but Nyiakole wasn't having it as she scrambled out of his arms.

As she saw Rei's severed legs, something snapped within Nyiakole's mind. Jumping from the stairs, her clothes shredded around her. Nyiakole landed on all fours in her full dragon form. With sleek black scales and a thin frame that resembled a greyhound, she wasn't very big. With her neck upright, her head reached six feet tall , but that didn't mean she couldn't be vicious. Her maw let out a snarl as she dashed to Mocsha. Long black talons scraped against the hardwood floors of the bar. Mocsha was ready to release the green orb when Nyiakole vanished. Mocsha then stumbled forward as Nyiakole pounced onto his back. Using her front claws, she dug them into his shoulders to hold on as her jaws, filled with sharp teeth, tried to bite and tear the flesh of his neck. Her back claws raked and tore at the muscles of Mocsha's back, causing the demon to howl. Nyiakole's tail whipped back and forth violently, trying to keep balance with Mocsha trying to shake her off.

Unsuccessful, the demon ran back into the wall, slamming himself, and Nyiakole against it. Balling up his fist, he reaches up and tries punching at her armored head. Nyiakole's breath was knocked out of her. At being trapped against the wall with his body, Nyiakole nipped at Mocsha's hands and continued to try and rake his flesh with her claws, tearing chunks from him. Mocsha could only keep slamming back against the wall as she continued to claw at him. He continuously added more and more power to the slams, even drilling her into it more. Feeling her bites and breath he raises his fist up as it glows, readying a blast

"Just die already!" he shouted. Suddenly, Mocsha's hand flies off of him and thumps against the ground twitching as Rei is seen in a pool of his own blood with smoke drifting from his gun. Having an extra clip ready, he had fumbled trying to load the hand gun as pain reeked havoc through his body. The clip did not contain the golden bullets he had ordered from Nukha, and they were not average bullets either. Able to pierce thick hide or even soft dragon scales, it dealt much more damage upon impact. His breaths were weak, but his focus was immense. Trying to pull the trigger once more, his hand starts to tremble before he falls limp against the floor, unconscious. Mocsha could only try slamming more, but now his attacks were on the losing end as he couldn't get Nyiakole off with only one hand

"Damn you all!" Mocsha snarls out. Starting to go insane with rage, he slams more and more and even thrusting his head back in a head butt as he went more and more wild. Nyiakole couldn't get away from Mocsha and desperately wraps the end section of her tail around his neck and tightens it like a coiled snake, trying to straggle him. The bones in one of her wings crushed completely from the force of Mocsha's body slamming into her. She became more desperate as she began biting at the top of his head and using her front claws to claw at his face and hopefully get his eyes. She then felt the other wing snap and break along with wave of pain hitting her body.

"Nyiakole!" Junyaho called out at the scene. His right arm then becomes more dragonic as it blacked and became scaly and his fingers turned into claws. Running at Mocsha, Junyaho reared his hand back and lashed out, thrusting his arm into Mocsha's gut to slice open his insides. While he was so close he summoned fire angled up at Mocsha's face. Seeing Junyaho release flames from the front, she opened up her jaws and spewed them down the top of his head as well. With both Nyiakole and Junyaho attacking him, Mocsha let out an infuriating shout. Grabbing Junyaho's hand and un skewering it from his gut, he whips the Dragon Lord back as he then blasts forward with inhuman speed. Nyiakole let out a surprised yelp as Mocsha bolted up the stairs. Getting away from the wall allowed her to unlatch herself from him where she dropped to the ground.

She didn't chase after him like Junyaho did. Instead, she quickly made her way to Rei's body. Pressing her snout against his head, Nyiakole looked over his body. Blood was pooling at his hips from where his legs were torn off. Rei was completely unresponsive. Shimmering into existence by Nyiakole and Rei, Pear hunched over and was panting hard. By her was a man with furry animal ears and tail, looking in horror at the destruction of the human body before him and Nyiakole's condition also. Pear coughed wretchedly and shook off her friend's concerned features pointing to Rei and Nyiakole.

"Fix them first," she demanded. She looked at Nyiakole and said, "I came as fast as I could once I got out... I'm so sorry I couldn't come sooner, This is J.J. He is a friend of mine and an excellent healer," Pear explained then leaned against the wall. She had used quite a bit of magic sneaking past both Junyaho and Mocsha. She closed her eyes just willing the pain in her to go away and stop hurting and it seemed to help slightly. J.J. nodded to Pear, but frowned as he did so. Rei didn't look like he had much longer to live. He looked around spotting the appendages, he need to heal him quick. He gathered the legs and took a deep breath.

"This is going to be a pain," he said and then started a complex healing form. He concentrated on his work hoping who ever did this amount of damage to the guy was long gone. Nyiakole stayed by Rei. Changing back to her dragonic human appearance, she was stark naked, but didn't seem to care. Placing her clawed hand against Rei's face, Nyiakole could only hope he would be alright.

Outside, both stood still holding firm stares. Junyaho took a stance ready to keep up the fight. Mocsha couldn't do much now with only one hand and his open wounds made him more sensitive to the fire and slowed his regeneration. He hated to come with the grips of a loss, but Junyaho was the deciding factor by far. He would have to get his chance on Nyiakole another day. He drops to his knees while glaring at Junyaho with a dark smile as a pentagram appears around him.

"I gotta give it you, Junyaho. If it weren't for you, Nyiakole would be finished. I admit my loss, but I don't admit my giving up on this. I wanna fight you again. In the meantime...I got some limbs to regenerate," Mocsha chuckles as he then disappears along with the pentagram.

"Damn," Junyaho growled as he watched Mocsha go. Waiting until Mocsha was completely gone, he walked back inside and down the stairs. Seeing everyone huddled around Rei as a new face was trying to heal his legs, he noticed Nyiakole's nude form. Walking to her side, he took off his battle worn coat and handing it to her. As she took it, Junyaho squatted down for a moment behind her and moved his hands to her stomach, trying to sense the life in her womb. Junyaho earned a quick swat from Nyiakole's hand. Sighing, he let his eyes drift to Nyiakole's broken wings.

"Get those healed," he said as he stood up. Glancing up, Nyiakole huffed.

"Where are you going?" she asked.

"I am going to secure the area, make sure the bastard doesn't come back," explained Junyaho. Once he left Rei remained motionless as his breathing became less and less. At hearing the quietness overtake the bar, Ami had ventured out of her brother's room to see what happened. Carefully creeping down the stairs, she was amazed at the destruction of the bar. Seeing the people gathered around her brother and eventually Rei himself, gasps and drops to her knees covering her mouth. He looked so lifeless that it horrified her to no end as tears quickly stream from her eyes. Hearing the gasp, Nyiakole looked up to see Ami. Inwardly cursing, she wanted to stay by Rei's side, but figured comforting the younger girl might be better. Nyiakole removed her hands from Rei and stood. Walking over to Ami, she sat down and wrapped her arms around her.

"Shhh.... your brother is a fighter, he will be alright," she said soothingly. Ami leaned against Nyiakole, and couldn't help but sob against her. J.J. had blocked out all sound and his surroundings as he focused solely on healing. He had only performed it a few times in his life but he knew the weave very well. It seemed like hours to him as sweat poured off his body to heal the wounds, but it was really minutes. He re-attached the legs slowly, fusing together the ligaments, tendons, veins, muscles and bones. When he had fixed the legs he slowly halted the spell, running his hands over the section they were severed, using his magic to make sure Rei was bleeding on the inside. He heard crying coming as he sensed the world again. He looked up to see a girl that was unmistakably related to Rei.

"I think he'll be okay. He lost a lot of blood. Hopefully his spirit is strong enough to keep him going for a little bit longer," he said. He took another breath. This weave was much simpler but still would take a lot out of himself. He closed his eyes again focusing on speeding up the process of making the blood in the man's body. Nyiakole held Ami, laying her head on her's, slightly nuzzling her as dragons do to comfort one another, while using a clawed hand to run it through Ami's long blue hair. She then kept quietly telling her everything was going to be alright as her green eyes remained on Rei's face. J.J. finished doing everything he could for Rei. He got up and moved his healing process to Nyiakole's wings.

Once he was done, J.J. and Nyiakole helped carry the unconscious Rei up the flights of stairs to his room. Nyiakole stayed with him and Ami. She stayed awake all night, taking care of them and watching over them. Pear had retired to her own room, exhausted from the amount of magic she had used. Her body felt so weak and irritated. Pear let J.J. crash in her room as well. He was dealing with his own exhaustion from the complex healing he had to do in a short amount of time. Above all of them on the roof, Junyaho sat and kept watch. He didn't suspect Mocsha would return anytime soon, but there was no harm in being cautious. He honestly could care less about everyone in the bar, except his offspring and the one carrying it. Nyiakole's bloodline was strong, it was only fitting he combined it with his to make an heir to carry out his duties as a clan leader, to follow in his footsteps. Of course, there was a bit of fun in forming the child, for him at least. But now, there was a deep, primal instinct, the natural urge to protect what was his and what was coming.

7: Chapter 7

The New World, was what some people use to call it. Nearly a hundred years ago did the pilgrims travel to the shores of America to face the unknown.  Now towns and cities were being built and all sorts of cultures were flocking to the settlements to start a new life. Now the New World was not so new anymore. In a small port town on the coast of South Carolina, sat a young girl on the dock watching the boats glide by in the waters. She had worked so hard to get here. Her intentions were to secure a place on one of the boats and travel to across the ocean to London. As long as she didn't have to be here in this land anymore she didn't care. Hopes were crushed. There would be no ship leaving within the next six months, and fares to travel were too much.

 

Dusk started to settle over the port. Fisherman pulled in their boats to their proper docks, securing them for the night as the townsfolk began to bunker down in their homes.

Unwanted looks were given to the girl as she continued to sit on the dock. She looked scraggly in appearance. What was once curly blonde hair was now just a frizzy, woven mess of tangles. Her dress that had been her only means of clothing was torn, stained and fading, nearly falling apart. Her creamy colored skin was rough and covered in dirt and grime. A grumble could be heard as her stomach twisted in hunger. Townsfolk pitied her appearance, but none reached out to help her.

 

Along coming to this new world, there were new dangers. The governments were ill formed as well as any enforcement. Most were well behaved though, priding themselves on being neighborly and civilized. However there were strange rumors and occurrences. Unexplainable, people were quick to point at one another to blame. It wasn't too long ago that people were being hanged for being a witch, or associating themselves with devils and demons. People tend to leave well enough alone, and that is what they did with the disheveled looking girl sitting on the wooden deck overstretching the water.

 

Dusk past and then came night. Lights faded from windows as those took to the comforts of their beds. Guns close by and ready. She continued to sit, alone in the dark. She could cry, but there were no more tears. The sensation of giving up was ever present and tonight it might just consume her. Laying down on the hard, wooden surface, was the only place she could go for now. Sleep would come eventually. An hour ticked by, then two. Seep didn't come. Letting out a soft sigh the girl then felt something scurry across her leg. She squealed, sitting up shooing away the invader. It was nothing more than a mere spider.

 

Taking breaths to try and calm herself, she then noticed something unusual, a small light approaching. Fear gripped her chest. Was it a townsman coming to rid his home of a danger... or worse... to satisfy a sick lust. Footsteps became louder as they met the wood of the dock. Then the light stopped. She could make out the lantern it shined from, but nothing else.

 

"Girl come," said a soft voice, womanly and comforting. It sounded like she was from overseas, perhaps England. The girl wasn't sure of what this figure wanted. Growing impatient, the woman with the lantern spoke once more "I said come hither girl, I shan't tell you once more." The girl heard the wood creak and the light sway as it moved away. She stood. Dusting herself off, she followed. Staying a good ten steps behind her leader, she couldn't make anything out in the dark other than a black figure. She was led away from the town. Up a nearby hill they traveled to a small cottage that overlooked the ocean. Upon opening the door a fire was already going lighting up the small room and warming the air. The woman, shrouded in a black cloak lifted up the lantern and blew out the flame. Revealing a glimpse of her arms, the girl was shocked. They were black, not like a person with darker skin, but an actual black. Like burnt ash. The woman never removed her cloak.

 

"Sit," she commanded gesturing to the small table. The girl obeyed. Why, she knew not, perhaps it was because she had nothing else to gain from life. Consumed by her cloak, the woman fiddled around the fire pit for a few moments before striding over to the table. She set a large bowl of hot stew in front of the frazzled and confused girl.

 

"Eat," was the next order, so she did. It was by far the best thing she had consumed in nearly a year. As the young child ate, the woman pulled back the hood of her cloak. Red eyes and red lips was the first thing to notice, then the stunning white hair, so beautiful and long. Her face was jeweled with a spider circlet resting on her head, the legs pointing upward like a crown. The girl nearly choked on her food. She slid her chair back away from the creature.

 

"Yer a demon!" she shouted. The hospitable dark skinned woman winced.

 

"And your speech is atrocious," she claimed. "False, I am no demon, but a dark elf," she explained. "My name is Daiyulean"

 

"A wha?" The girl drew out in her country slang. Daiyulean's eye brows knitted together, this girl's terrible sounding voice needed to be worked on.

 

"A dark elf, a being that typically dwells underground," she explained further. The girl still seemed confused. She was perhaps dense as well. "Do humans continue to think they only exist? I am a living being just like you, not spat out by hell fire to place a curse on humanity," Daiyulean said with irritation. The girl scooted back to the table and swished the stew around in her bowl.

 

"If that be true… why you be helpin' me?" she asked. "Draggin' me indoors and stuffin' me with a meal?" Daiyulean pulled out a chair and sat down at the table.

 

"Because, despite your... rough edges… I see potential." The girl looked up at Daiyulean with her ice colored blue eyes. They were stunning.

 

"Get on elf," she commanded "Explain yer thinkin'."

 

"It’s more like a trade, if I can help you better yourself, even to help accomplish your wildest desires, then perhaps you can help me," she explained. "Girl tell me, what is your wildest dreams? What is it you want deep, deep down in your human heart?" Daiyulean inquired. The girl sat and thought. A long time seemed to pass, perhaps she didn't know; perhaps she didn't want to admit what she wanted. The girl looked down at her bowl of stew and glared.

 

"I’ve been wronged, I wish to right it," she said finally looking at Daiyulean. "Can ye help with that elf?" A smirk came to Daiyulean's red ruby lips.

 

"I can child and more if you promise your service in return."

 

"If it be feasible elf, ye got a bargain." The girl said along with a curt nod.

 

"Good, inform me girl, what be your name?"

 

"Candice."

 

After making their small agreement, Candice had stayed the night in Daiyulean's small cottage. The next morning, the dark elf woman ordered Candice to bathe. Scrubbing the months of dirt and grime from her body, the most difficult part was her tangled hair. For over an hour Candice hunched over her bathing pot trying to get out the mats. It was a wasted effort; Daiyulean had to cut Candice's long, blonde hair. The dark elf had bought fares to travel back to England; the only drawback was, like what Candice found out, the ship didn't leave for another six months. Rules were then put into place. Candice had to keep herself well groomed, bathing everyday was a must. She was not to go into the town and speak of Daiyulean. During the time they waited on for the ship to arrive, Daiyulean helped Candice's speech, taught the poor girl how to read and write, and explain to her what she was and how she could help.

 

Eventually the ship arrived, dropping off more settlers. The ride back over to England was a lot lighter. Long and boring, Candice could only keep to the studies Daiyulean was giving her; always saying that knowledge was the key to accomplish her dreams. In her learning, Candice had discovered that Daiyulean knew magic. Dark and powerful magic. And with that magic, over the years, Daiyulean had made herself an earth born deaity. Once the ship docked in England, Daiyulean took Candice all around the country and then all over Europe. The dark elf's goal was to educate and desensitize Candice.

 

The humans view on the world was so far from the truth of the actual happenings. Exposing Candice slowly to these truths, Daiyulean hoped to gain trust from the girl as well as understanding. Then once Daiyulean would help the blonde gain her power, she would have another pawn for her quest. A very strong loyal pawn. The finally the time arrive; Daiyulean was sure Candice was ready. Over the years, the girl of fifteen matured into that of a nineteen year old and she was finally showing signs. Her anger, sorrow and lust for vengeance were changing her, morphing her very being. But it was not enough and Daiyulean had to push Candice more over the edge to complete the transformation.

 

Walking through the dark alleyways of Germany, Candice loyally followed her dark elf mistress without question. Stopping in front of a shady looking building, Daiyulean knocked upon the door. As they waited for someone to answer, the dark elf looked towards Candice.

 

"This will be difficult for you to comprehend, but through it all, I want you to remember what you felt all those years ago. The shame, the humiliation, the anger, and let it build. Let it all consume you and then unleash it. I won't be able to stay with you tonight, but I will return in the morning," explained Daiyulean.  Before Candice had a chance to question her mistress, the door swung open. Standing there was a shirtless man with a toned physique and shaggy brown hair. His eyes were dark, nearly black and suggested that he wasn't human.

 

"What do you want?" he asked in a thick accent as he glared at the two women.

 

"I spoke with Orlin a few days ago, this is the young girl I promised," Daiyulean said smoothly as she gestured to Candice with her cloaked hand.

 

"Right..." the man huffed out. He reached out and grabbed Candice by the arm and pulled into her the light to look at her better. He growled. "What a little beauty... She is accepted," he said.

 

"Here is your gold, now leave." Catching the small pouch that was tossed to her, Daiyulean nodded.

 

"With pleasure," she said. Giving Candice one last look, she turned and left, disappearing in the dark alley. Before Candice had a chance to call out to her mistress, the large wooden door was slammed shut. Being spun around, Candice spotted two other males sitting at a table eating. The actual place was small. The front room had an old stove, a cupboard, a wooden table enough for four, a futon and a couple of chairs. Spotting a door against the back wall, she could hear moans and shouts coming from the other side. More than likely it was a small, and the only, bedroom. Looking up at the man who held her, Candice then noticed he had a pair of gray, furry ears. Seeing her shocked expression the man huffed.

 

"What never seen a ware before?"

 

"I uhh.... What...what is this place? Why am I here?" asked Candice as she looked around. Not getting an answer, the gray eared ware said.

 

"Remove your clothing."  Standing there for a moment, she finally moved her shaking hands to unlace the front of her dress before letting the simple clothing slip from her nude body. Grabbing her once more, Candice was dragged across the dimly lit room and thrown down on the old futon. Fear and panic gripped her heart as her ware captor laid down on top of her. Candice tried pushing him away. He gripped her hands and held them over her head.

 

"Calm down sweet thing," he said.  His eyes appeared completely black as he gazed down at her. A grin came to his face as he liked what he saw. Her frighten helpless expression surrounded by her long curly locks of golden hair. Her terrified bright blue eyes lined in thick, black lashes, her full lips taking shallow breaths.

 

"Hey don't break her, we just bought her," taunted one of the men sitting at the table.

 

"Don't worry, You both will get a chance at her," he replied as he dragged his tongue against Candice's face. Her heart started to beat wildly as he unzipped his pants and pulled them down. Gripping her thighs, he spread her legs open and rubbed the tip of his hard shaft against her slit. Pressing the tip of cock against her opening, he pushed himself roughly inside her in one thrust.  Candice let out a soft cry as she clamped her eyes shut. He started moving his hips against her in firm thrusts. His solid black eyes scanned over her body, watching her large round breasts bounce to his movement.

 

Running his hand along her curvy hips, he slid them down to her slender legs as he began to thrust even faster. And just as quickly as it started, the ware panting above her howled out a moan. Thrusting hard into her one more time, he remained still for several moments before pulling himself out. Panting, he stood up and moved away from the futon. Candice thought it was over, and why she had to go through this, she didn't understand. She had learned not to question Daiyulean, but she didn't see how this would help. Haring a chair scrub across the floor, Candice looked up to see one of the other men approach her.

 

"Please don't," Candice whimpered out. As he came closer, she could see that he was also one of these so called wares. However, he didn’t say a word. Instead, he grabbed Candice and flipped her over onto her knees. Entering her and thrusting into her, he was much more rougher then the last. Candice just kept her eyes closed and tried not to think about what was happening to her. She then recalled what Daiyulean had said to her. Candice let these few feelings bring back her old memories that taunted her every day. Feeling the helplessness, the humiliation, the sorrow, she began to feel a deep burn build in her chest. The anger. Candice had felt it before, but not as strongly as she did now.

 

Letting her nightmare replay over and over again in her mind, she continued to feel the male ware behind her, slamming himself against her. Her anger flared. Her jaw started to ache as she clamped and grinded her teeth together. Feeling like on the brink, Candice kept trying to hold her feelings back from becoming the wild and out of control mess she felt herself trying to break free. Tears started to form in the corners of her eyes as her breathing started to become labored. Trembling, she felt like she could barely hold herself up. With the anger swirling around inside her, Candice couldn’t hold any of it back anymore. Feeling it all overtake her, she let out a cry before her vision went black. 

 

The next morning, Daiyulean had traveled back to the door she had left Candice at. The dark elf didn’t bother to knock as she turned the door knob and slowly opened the door. The scene that was laid before her was what Daiyulean had hoped for. Blood splatter and smears decorated the walls, limbs and body parts were scattered all across the floor. Everything that had been inside was destroyed and sitting in the middle of it was a blood covered Candice. The blonde looked up at Daiyulean as she stood in the doorway. Her bright blue eyes were no longer soft and confused, but sharp and cold. A small smirk came to Candice’s lips.

 

“Finally made it back did you?” she asked. Daiyulean hummed as she continued to look about the small, ruined household.

 

“I told you I would be by morning,” the dark elf replied. “Besides, I wanted to give you time, make sure the process was completed. I am glad it worked out.” Candice stood up, not ashamed to show off her nude body as she was once. There was such a vast change in her demeanor; it was if Candice had been replaced overnight with someone completely different.

 

“Well it gave me more time to have some fun,” said Candice. “What now?”

 

"It may take a few days to adjust to the new feelings and sensations, I suggest you sleep," Daiyulean said. “Then we shall find the one who wronged you.” Seeing her revenge so close, Candice grinned sadistically.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Walking down the hallway of her underground fortress, Daiyulean found herself standing in front of a door. Giving a small courtesy knock, she opened the it and looked in to see Candice laying in her bed throwing darts up at the ceiling. Her targets were celebrities ripped out of a teen magazine. The appearance of the blonde hadn't changed one bit.

 

"Having fun are we?" Daiyulean asked in a sarcastic manner. Candice glanced over at the dark elf woman.

 

"Loads," she answered flatly.

 

"I see... I have an assignment for you, it’s rather an important one," Daiyulean explained. Candice sat up as interest came across her face. Remaining silent, she let Daiyulean continue. "It seems like a little bar in New York has gotten some activity recently. Due to information I have acquired, I would like you to have the honors and scout the area. I want anything you can pry from them, and hopefully, this won't be another dead end." Candice huffed.

 

"I guess you want me to leave it pretty clean then right?" she asked. Daiyulean nodded.

 

"I know you like to get things dirty, but I don't trust anyone else with this, use whatever methods you like, but don't hurt or kill anyone," instructed Daiyulean. Candice nodded with a bored expression on her face. If it was once thing her mistress didn't like, it was attention. And having a bloodlust, it was hard to keep a low profile. Daiyulean handed Candice a file with some information and proceeded to leave. How boring, to go out and not even make a scratch.

 

“Well maybe I can get there before that dreadful dragon does,” Candice mused to herself as she reviewed the file. “But, it is always fun when the old bat shows up.”

8: Chapter 8

Hot, why was she so hot? Grumbling, Nyiakole rolled from her side to her back as she kicked off the covers. Laying there for a few moments, Nyiakole let out an aggravated sigh. "You are not supposed to be in here," she said rather flatly. She glanced over at the window sill where Junyaho was sitting, staring out the pane of glass. He let his golden eyes wander over to Nyiakole.

"Well what you want and what's important doesn't really matter right now. There is a psychotic assassin out there who seems very fond of tearing limbs off. I want to make sure you stay safe," he said. Nyiakole sighed and rolled her eyes.

"Why do I even voice my wishes then," she said as she got up from the bed. Crossing the room to the bathroom, Nyiakole began her morning ritual of preparing herself for the day. Junyaho slid off the window sill and followed Nyiakole. He leaned against the door frame as she brushed her hair, her teeth, and washed her face.

"Have you given any thought to what I have asked you?" Junyaho inquired softly. Nyiakole placed her hands on the sink counter as she hung her head. The past couple of day, Junyaho’s presence had grated hard on her nerves.

"Junyaho... I," said Nyiakole as she paused with a sigh. "It’s just a lot to think about," she finally replied.

"You know I am actually being very nice and very fair," he said to Nyiakole's resistance. "Everything you need, everything you want, I can give you and provide you. This bar, your friends, you can keep them all and even be a part of your child's life. I am making this easy for you."

"I know Junyaho... I just.... to be your mate... I just.... I need more time to think about it," Nyiakole whispered. Sighing she left the bathroom, walking past Junyaho.

"Nyiakole, you know what would happen if you say no," he said. "You cannot get by on your own and I will not stand by and let our child stay with you." Nyiakole bit her lip.

"I am not saying no.... I just want more time, I.... it’s just a big decision," Nyiakole groaned out. Junyaho didn't understand why Nyiakole was so reluctant. He had raped her, he had ruined her life in her eyes, and he understood that. But he was a dragon lord, he was offering to make it all better, to keep what she wanted, to help raise the child, to never have to worry about anything every again, and she didn't seem at all interested. But as the days went by, bubbling to the surface were things he was starting to notice.

"It’s Rei isn't it?" He bluntly asked. Nyiakole paused as she looked back at Junyaho. Her expression read that he was possibly right. "What is it Nyiakole? Are you worried about that he won't recover? He will never wake? That I will kick him out? That he won't approve of us and leave?" Junyaho asked. At the thought of Rei leaving, Nyiakole looked away. It would seem that his suspicions were coming into light. "Is it something more Nyiakole? Is it Rei you wish that was asking you?" Junyaho watched as Nyiakole's fists tensed and tighten.

"We are no longer having this conversation," she stated. Nyiakole moved to leave her room.

 "You are being foolish. He won't be there for you Nyiakole, you know he will leave," Junyaho said before Nyiakole slammed the door. Storming down the hallway, Nyiakole huffed and sniffled. She paused; leaning against the wall she wiped away a few tears. She was in turmoil. Rei was the only person she felt safe around, the only person that had her interest and feelings in mind.

She felt if she was to mate with Junyaho, all her needs and wishes would be met, but she would be completely miserable. It was not or ever what she envisioned her life to be. Taking a deep breath to calm herself, Nyiakole headed down the stairs to her virtually destroyed bar. The echoing sounds of hammers and drills attacked Nyiakole's ears viciously as she got closer. Stepping into the bar room, she looked around as all the workers were hauling out the destructed mess and were assigned to rebuild the bar.

"Geez.... how lone is this going to take?" Nyiakole muttered to herself. She had to side step to get out of the way of a worker who was carrying something heavy. He grunted at the princess for slowing down his work for that brief second. Appearing to stand next to her was Pear.

"I would give it about a day or so... Junyaho hired good workers for this, rude, but good," she said as she looked over at Nyiakole. "How are you holding up?" she asked. Nyiakole signed.

"Fine I guess... Rei still hasn't woken up, and the baby is fine as far as we know,“ she said. Leaning against the wall, Nyiakole rested with her eyes closed. "I am glad he has offered to pay for all this, but I can't help but feel this lingering feeling, like he is up to something." Nyiakole explained. Pear remained silent for a few moments. She had noticed the Dragon Lord had been lurking around that past few days, and that he seemed to be taking care of a lot of things.

"Yeah...." She said. Pear then looked at Nyiakole. "Nyiakole let's be blunt for a moment, why is Junyaho even here? I mean, it’s understandable to get help for things, but the guy raped you, the evidence is in your rounding stomach," Pear exclaimed. Nyiakole's green eyes looked down; her stomach was just starting to nudge out.

"You are right, he raped me, he totally fucked up my life, so why not use him to try and make it a little bit better," Nyiakole said as she looked at Pear, their eyes meeting and locking for a moment. Pear then sighed as she looked away.

"Whatever you feel comfortable with Nyiakole, I just don't... I don't want you to get more hurt because of this; I don't want you to think you can turn to him because you have no other choice."

"I understand Pear, if he can just get us by until we can figure things out, than that is all" Nyiakole said. "Well what about you? How are you doing? I don't think I have seen you come out of you room much." she asked. Pear nodded as she kept her eyes on the floor.

"I am sick Nyiakole," she said.

"Sick? What do you mean?" Nyiakole looked over at Pear. "Like a cold? Do you need medicine?" Pear shook her head.

"No, it’s something I have had for a while. It’s something magic users get, if I use to much magic like I did a few nights ago, it starts to eat away at my body, if I don't use it at all, it starts to affect my mind... J.J. and I have been trying to find some way to stabilize it or even find a cure, but... I have just been resting like everyone else," Pear explained. Concern crossed Nyiakole's face; she didn't know what to say about something like that.

"I am sorry to hear that Pear," Nyiakole finally said. Pear looked over at the young dragon.

"It's alright Nyiakole, we just all need to keep hoping for the best," she said. Nodding, Nyiakole sighed.

"Yes we do. Well... I have a sweet tooth craving," she said. Avoiding the workers as best as she could, Nyiakole walked into the kitchen and over to the pantry. Taking out a box of snack cakes, the past day or so, they had become a favorite of hers. Walking back over to Pear, she was about to say something else when she heard footsteps pounding down the stairs.

"Nyiakole! Nyiakole!"  Ami shouted excitedly. "He is awake! Brother is awake come on!" Nyiakole looked back at Pear.

"Excuse me," She said as she darted up the stairs after Ami. Once entering the room, Nyiakole looked over at the bed where Rei was laying. Nyiakole set down the box of sweets on the nightstand as she stood by his bedside. He was awake, his eyes open, but he seemed sluggish and disoriented. Looking around, trying to focus on things, Rei finally was coming to his senses as he saw two figures loom over him. His vision adjusting, Rei made out his sister and Nyiakole.

"Thank god..." he managed to mumble out. A smile spread across Nyiakole's face. She reached down and pushed the bangs out of his eyes.

"I could be saying the same thing, you really had me worried there," She said. Nyiakole had a look on her face as to perhaps she wanted to say more, but just couldn't find the words to express how she really felt, knowing that he was okay. She just smiled. "If I lost you Rei I swear that would have been the final straw," she said. Rei blushed at Nyiakole's attentions. He gave a ruined smiled.

"You shouldn't have to worry about a human like me," he said. "I did what I needed to do to keep you and Ami safe."

"I am just glad you a getting better, you would have died if Pear didn't bring in a healer," Nyiakole informed Rei. "Can I get you anything?" she asked.

"Some water would be nice," replied Rei. Eager to please, Ami jumped up.

"Oh I will get it!" she said as she darted out the door and down to the bar. Nyiakole smiled as she watched the younger girl run out of the room before she turned her attention back to Rei.

"I haven't seen that much emotion from her lately," Rei said gently.

"She was so worried about you Rei," Nyiakole said as she sat on the edge of the bed gently. Rei simply nodded.

"I can't remember much, I blacked out, what happened?" he asked. "I feel so week and numb," Letting out a soft sigh, Nyiakole leaned over and laid her head on Rei's chest. As she did so, Rei couldn't help but lay there as he felt like a weak depressed mess.

"You were hurt, really bad," Nyiakole said, stating the obvious. "That demon... he ripped your legs off. We thought you were going to die; there was so much blood everywhere. Luckily we were able to save you. Junyaho was actually able to ward him off, I guess it was a good thing he decided to stop by, or we would all be worse off," Nyiakole said softly.

"Yeah I guess..." He said a bit bitterly. He was still angry at Junyaho for what he did to Nyiakole; he had a hard time picturing the Dragon Lord helping. "I hope you are not going to trust him because of that," he said. Nyiakole was quiet for a few moments.

"Most of the bar downstairs got destroyed, he is paying to fix it along paying for other things," Nyiakole said. "I am not saying I trust him, but…" Nyiakole said as she trialed off. Rei  sighed as he looked away from Nyiakole.

"But what?" he asked.

"I don't know... I feel stuck, I feel like I need him right now, just until things get sorted out and I figure out a way to support myself," Nyiakole explained. "I just... want you to get better.”

"I hope you are right," he said deciding not to press the issue of Junyaho any farther. "I feel so weak, like I can't move," he stated. Reaching up, Nyiakole placed a hand on the side of Rei's face.

"You will get better Rei... and if not, I will find a way." Nyiakole closed her eyes for a moment. "I am just so glad you are alive, I feel like fate keeps trying to take things away from me. If I lost you I swear that would be the last straw." Rei's heart started to beat faster upon Nyiakole touching his cheek, but his demeanor didn't change. It was a horrible feeling, physically unable to do anything, especially for someone like him. Hearing Nyiakole's words, he felt like she was giving him too much credit. His hand twitches trying to clasp her hand that was over his.

"Nyiakole, the day I leave you will be the day you no longer need me around. There will be a time where you can make your own decisions and protect yourself without my help, or anyone else's. You are a strong woman Nyiakole, and I am just a human, there is only so much I can do for you," Rei said gently. Nyiakole could hear Rei's heart beating faster and kept her eyes closed. What he said hurt her a little bit, but she knew it was true as well. She then let out a sigh.

"Well I hope that day never comes, I like having you around....but if there is one place this place is proving is that nothing lasts forever," she said while sitting up. Deep down though, Nyiakole knew very well that Rei was human and she was not, even if he didn't go anywhere, she would outlive him. In her thousands of years of life, he could become nothing more than a distant or even forgotten memory, and that didn't settle right with Nyiakole. She let out a sigh. "We are both strong Rei, we are just having difficult times right now," added Nyiakole. Rei couldn't really accept her saying he was strong, but said nothing. He gazed back at Nyiakole's eyes deeply with his struggling and desperate eyes. After a long stare, he gently looked away.

"You shouldn't be the one to have such strenuous circumstances, Nyiakole. It's happened to me and my sister and I don't want it to happen to you. When we were first getting to know each other, you made me wonder if the lifestyle you had then would've been the same for me if I had better luck with my father. Your determination and position reminded me of what it was like back then and you are as innocent as Ami in many ways. I'm going to be honest with you, Nyiakole, I view you as someone I need to protect just as I protect Ami, I don't want to see you unhappy and draw nearer to something like I've become," Nyiakole glanced over at Rei.

"Rei, you sound like you’re laying in that bed dying," She spoke. Turning her head, she studied the ceiling as thoughts started to roll across her mind. "I might still need protection Rei. I can’t help but wonder, if this is what my own mother felt like. Being powerless to save your own child," Nyiakole stated after a few moments. Rei looked up at the ceiling as well. In all his time that he knew Nyiakole. He had never seen or heard her mention her mother.

"What do you mean?" he inquired. Humming, Nyiakole turned over more to her side so that she could rub the forming bump on her belly.

"I am just afraid that I won't be able to protect it, Junyaho is acting so... he is just... he is different now that I am carrying his child. I feel like he is just bidding his time, like this was his ultimate goal, and once the baby is born, he will just take it and I won't be able to do anything about it," Nyiakole admitted.

"Maybe you are just reading too much into his actions,” he hopefully stated. It was strange to him, that Junyaho had rape Nyiakole and then turned around to protect her and provide once she became pregnant. But then again, Dragons were so different than humans. They were driven by raw natural instinct to ensure the safety of their young and those who carried them. It was as if a parental light switch had flicked on in Junyaho's head.

"Maybe," Nyiakole replied. Both continue to lay there next to one another. Nyiakole looked up at Rei and could see the heavy depression across his face. She wished there was some way she could comfort him, but comfort wasn't one of her strong points. Looking over to the night stand where she had placed her box of treats. Sitting up and taking out one of the heart shaped cakes out. Holding out her hands she smiled.

"Here, eat one of these, they have been making me feel better," Nyiakole said. Rei wasn't very hungry, but he tried to lift his arm to take the snack cake. Seeing the difficulty Rei was having just trying to move his arm, Nyiakole wrapped one arm around his mid back and lifted him up to a sitting position. Using her teeth, she opened the treat and held it so Rei could take a bite.

"This is as good as it is going to get," Nyiakole said with a smile. "I am not going to chew it up for you" Rei sighed helplessly as Nyiakole lifted him up and kept his empty expression. One could simply tell by looking, he hated how useless he felt. Gently, he took a bite of the snack and chews slowly. Out of impulse however from feeling Nyiakole's arm around him, he leans his head against her shoulder trying to relax a bit more, sighing as he stares at nothing in dreaded thought of how weak he was, even when healthy. Nyiakole placed down the snack and wrapped both arms around Rei and even runs a hand through his hair. She lays her head on his and even nuzzles a little bit.

"I will stay with you and Ami tonight," she said. "If you want,’ she added. Rei felt a soft warmth come over him as Nyiakole embraced him as she did. He wondered if this was what it was like to be comforted. Her words, even when at first, he felt they wouldn't reach him, now felt like they had some meaning for him. Nyiakole then whispers in his ear. "It may not mean much, but you are one of the strongest in my eyes."

"Thank you Nyiakole," Rei replied softly. Outside the room, Ami was holding the glass of water she had went to fetch. Hearing Nyiakole and Rei talk to each other, she was a bit jealous of their closeness, but at the same time, she was glad her brother had such a close friend. She entered the room with a smile.

"Here is your water," she announced. Walking over to the edge of the bed she held the glass with a straw. Rei took a few sips before laying his head against Nyiakole's shoulder. After a few moments he had drifted off to sleep. Nyiakole gently laid Rei down and tucked the blankets around him.

“Keep a good eye on him. I will be back a little later.” Nyiakole informed Ami before leaving the room.

9: Chapter 9

Leaning against the wall in the hall outside of her bedroom, Nyiakole held her hands over her face as she tried to get the tears to stop leaking from her eyes. The sheer aggravation and pressure she constantly felt from Junyaho was just getting under her skin. He would make snide comments, threats, and just expected her to agree to be mates. It was just so frustrating! Nyiakole knew, if she ever agreed to his proposal, she would be miserable for the rest of her life, or at least until she managed to get away from him. Hearing footsteps come up the stairs. Nyiakole quickly dried her face. Looking over at the stairs, she saw Nukha and another man.

"Hey sweet cheeks, long time no see," the red head merchant teased. His smile faded a little as he noticed her upset expression. "Hey you alright?" he asked.

"Me? Oh yeah... just hormones," Nyiakole said as she waved her hand. "What brings you here?" Nyiakole asked. Nukha raised an eyebrow as if he didn't believe her.

"This is Tetsuya" He said, introducing the man next to him. "We are here to check on Rei." Nyiakole nodded.

"Right... right," she said. She had forgotten they were coming today. Even though Rei had woken, he still couldn’t move very well. His legs, not at all. Tetsuya nodded to Nyiakole as he held out his hand.

"Nice to meet you," he said. Nyiakole shook hands with the man. "Well if you excuse me," Tetsuya said as he proceeded to Rei's room.

"Nyiakole, would you accompany me downstairs for a drink?" Nukha asked. "Non-alcoholic of course." Nyiakole swallowed and shook her head.

"Sorry... I will stay here and see what he says."

"Alright then.... Miss Pear wouldn't happen to be down there would she?" he asked. Nyiakole nodded.

"Yeah I think she said she was going to restock the new bar,” she told Nukha.

"Well then," Nukha said with a smirk. He turned on his heel and headed back down the stairs. Arriving in the bar, Nukha found Pear unpacking cases newly ordered bottles on the shelves. "Well aren't you a sight for sore eyes," Nukha said smoothly. Pear turned around to see Nukha and smirked.

"Nukha Royiaki... such a sly one," she said, leaning against the bar counter. "We went on that really nice date and then I don't hear anything from you for months. I was beginning to wonder if you didn't have a good time," commented Pear.

"Forgive me Miss Pear, I didn't intend to go so long without contacting you. Business has just been busy and has kept me from your beautiful self," he said with a handsome smile. "If you would ever be so kind, I would like to go take you out again." Smirking, Pear hummed as she looked up at the ceiling in playful thought.

"I guess so... only if we go somewhere nice, has alcohol, and its tonight," she said. Nukha hummed in return and pulled out his phone.

"Let me check my schedule.... yeah I think I can fit dinner in somewhere between getting drinks and taking you back to my place," Nukha said in a sly tone as he glanced over at Pear. The last time they had went out, it ended in a fantastic night in his bed. Traveling around the bar counter, Pear made her way over to Nukha. Standing so close to him, she placed her hand on his chest, smiling up at him.

"Or we could just skip dinner all together and just go to your place," she said. Nukha let out a small grumble as he wrapped his arms around Pear's waist and pulled her even closer. Not saying another word, he softly pressed his lips against hers.

Meanwhile, upstairs, Nyiakole was standing next to Rei's door. While Tetsuya examined and ran tests on Rei, she was outside, stewing in nervousness and worry. Almost an hour passed by before Tetsuya opened the door. Seeing Nyiakole waiting, he nodded for her to go in. Taking a breath, she did so. Seeing Ami sitting on the bed next to Rei, both were upset. Ami looked like she had been sobbing and Rei's face was grim. Nyiakole's heart sank. She swallowed the lump that was forming in her throat as she walked to the bed side. She knew whatever it was, it had to be bad.

"What did he say?" Nyiakole eventually mustered.

"J.J. He did a good job attaching my legs back on, but... the nerve ending that connect to my spine are just .... they are ruined," Rei explained softly.

".... What.... what does that mean?" Nyiakole asked though she felt she already knew the answer.

"My legs are paralyzed, I will never be able to use them again," he barely whispered out. Nyiakole felt her heart twist as a terrible feeling in her gut arose. At hearing the news again, Ami placed her hands over her face as she sobbed. Nyiakole gently sat down on the bed. Utter shock and guilt was what she felt.

"Rei I.... I'm," she started to say.

"Nyiakole it’s alright..." Rei said. He didn't want to admit it, but after not being able to move his legs since he woke, he already had a feeling this was going to be the outcome.

"... No its not... that demon was after me... not you, it should be me laying in the bed not you," Nyiakole said as she started to feel teary eyed herself.

"No Nyiakole, I did what I must to protect you, if that meant losing my legs then so be it, I will do it again and again to make sure you stay safe," he said adamantly. Nyiakole looked at Rei with a shocked, but soft expression. Glancing at the floor, Nyiakole sighed.

"You don't deserve this..." she said mournfully. Using his arms Rei pushed himself up to a sitting position where he placed his hand on Nyiakole's shoulder. A defeated expression covered his face.

"No, but I will gladly accept my fate as long as you are alive," he said softly. Nyiakole gently looked up at him. Her desperate eyes held so much sorrow. Swallowing back the lump that was in her throat, she did her best to hold back her tears. Seeing Nyiakole upset tore at Rei's heart more than knowing he wouldn't be able to walk again. Seeing her lip start to quiver and about to emotionally fall apart, he pulled her into a small embrace and let her cry on his shoulder. After sobbing for a few minutes, Nyiakole finally got control over herself. Pulling away from Rei, she wiped her face with the back of her hand.

"Rei, I am so sorry... I will make this up to you I swear," she said.

"Nyiakole... no you don't have..." Rei tried to say as Nyiakole shook her head.

"Yes, I do... if there is any way for you to walk again I will find it, I promise," Nyiakole said. Rei opened his mouth to try and protest, but he just couldn't. He let out a sigh and rubbed Nyiakole's shoulders.

"Thank you Nyiakole," was all he could say. Rei didn't have much hope. It was just easier to accept the fact that he couldn't walk rather than to build hope and have it taken away again. Nodding, Nyiakole stood up as she sniffled.

"Can I get you anything Rei?" she asked, wiping her face.

"Thanks Nyiakole, but I am okay for right now. If you would... I just want to be alone with Ami right now." he said as he looked over at his distraught sister.

"Right... just let me know if you need anything," she offered. Nyiakole walked over to Ami.

"Don't worry; I will take care of him," she said. Ami and Nyiakole exchanged an embrace before Nyiakole left. She shut the door and leaned against the wall. Placing her hand on her face, Nyiakole tried to fight back her emotions again. Swallowing hard and taking a breath, Nyiakole walked back to her room with deep determination. Not to her surprise, Junyaho was still in her room. He was browsing on his laptop that he had brought over so he could continue to work. As Nyiakole barged in, he glanced up at her with curious golden eyes.

"I will be your mate," she said firmly. Junyaho was taken aback at Nyiakole's sudden decision. He was about to say something when Nyiakole abruptly held up her hand. "I will be your mate only if and when you find a way for Rei to walk again," she demanded. Junyaho raised an eyebrow as Nyiakole made her demands. He knew of Rei's inability to walk, he could only guess the situation had become a permanent one.

"Nyiakole... even with the strongest of magic or the most advance technology that is..." he started to say before Nyiakole interrupted him.

"What are you saying Junyaho?" she asked. "That you are not the powerful lord everyone thinks you are? You say you can grant my every wish, but don't want to put up the effort?" she said accusingly. "Make Rei walk by whatever means you can and I will gladly be your mate." Junyaho sat back in his chair and mulled over the thoughts that ran across his mind.

"Alright Nyiakole," he said gently. "Do you mind if I make our intentions public then?" he asked with a curious expression. Inhaling sharply, Nyiakole tried to hold back her tongue.

"Not at all," she said.

 

Once downstairs, Tetsuya found Pear and Nukha giggling and chatting over a few open bottles. He explained the news to them and with fears confirmed, they were placed in a depressed mood. As Tetsuya took his leave, Nukha and Pear shortly followed. They decided to go out and drink to their injured friend in a more upbeat atmosphere. However, all of their actions weren't going unnoticed. Once empty, a shadow slithered from under the bar counter and took the form of a woman in the middle of the bar room. Candice placed her hands on her hips and sighed.

"How boring... I don't know what Daiyulean wants with these pathetic losers," she muttered. Sultrily walking to the bar counter, her hips swaying, she picked up a bottle of vodka. It would be a nice parting gift for herself.

10: Chapter 10

Pear tilted her head back as she moaned in heavy passion. Rhythmically moving her hips against Nukha's, he had his arms wrapped around her waist and his lips against her breast. Suckling on her nipple, Nukha pounded his hips up into Pear. Changing his canines into fangs, he gently bit the top of her breast and began to suckle on the blood that dribbled out. Inhaling sharply at the piercing pain, she looked down at Nukha.

"Easy Nukha..." she whispered lustfully. Sliding his tongue over the bite mark, the half vampire looked up at Pear with a grin.

"Sorry baby, you just taste so good," he said. Moving his hips up against her harder, Nukha started nibbling on her neck. Panted breaths and moans filled the room. Pulling Pear closer, Nukha laid back and rolled over so he was on top of her. Smothering her for a moment with kisses, Nukha props himself up on his elbows and starts restlessly thrusting into Pear. Her hands gripped his back as she spread her legs more. Moaning out Nukha's name loudly, Pear was sent over the edge in pleasure, Nukha soon to follow. After their intense waves of pleasure died down, Nukha rolled off Pear and let out a satisfied sighed. Reaching between his legs, he pulled off the condom he wore and tossed it in the trash. Pear rolled to her side and snuggled up against Nukha. Wrapping their arms around each other they laid there in the quiet for a few moments.

"That sucks.... about Rei," Pear said softly, breaking the silence. Nukha shifted against Pear and sighed.

"Yeah.... it does," he said as he trailed his hand up and down Pear's soft smooth back.

"I feel so bad for him... and for Nyiakole."

"Why Nyiakole? As far as I am aware, she isn't the one with jacked up legs," Nukha asked curiously. Pear sighed and rested her head on Nukha's chest

"No, she is the one with the jacked up life. She has been through so much, I know you haven't been over there but... she relied so much on Rei and they are so close," Pear said. "I was hoping that they... " trailed off Pear. Nukha let his eyes wander down to Pear.

"That what? They would end up together?" he questioned. "Maybe they are just friends and nothing more."

"I know," Pear said a bit reluctantly as she trailed her hand over Nukha's bare, smooth chest. "I know... he would just always take good care of her, more so then someone from her race."

"Their relationship, or lack of, is not for us to decide or push them into. Their choices are that of their own," Nukha said. Laying next to Nukha quietly, Pear mulled over thoughts in her mind. She had come to be friends with Nyiakole. Watching her struggles and how Rei always brought a smile to her face. Pear just wanted Nyiakole to find happiness, she deserved it.

"What about us then?" Pear asked Nukha.

"What about us?" Nukha repeated wanting to know what Pear was hinting at.

"Well...Do we have a relationship or not?" Pear asked "Are we going to keep this going or are am I just something convenient for you?" Her tone was not accusatory, but she honestly just wanted to know. Nukha was silent as he gazed up at the ceiling.

 

"Pear, I have been with a few women and had a few night stands before. If I wanted something convenient I would have asked one of my maids to come to my bedroom. I like this... I like you, I don't have any objection to us dating more, do you?" he asked. A small smile was brought to Pear's face.

"Yeah I guess that will do," said Pear as she leaned up and kissed Nukha. Slowly moving off him, Pear climbed out of the bed. "I am going to take a shower, do you want to join me?" she asked.

"No thanks,  I will just relax here alright?" Nukha said. Pear nodded and walked into the bathroom. Once the shower started, Nukha reached over to his night stand and took out a pack of cigarettes. As he lit one, his cell phone rang. Groaning, Nukha had to lean more than half his body off the bed. With one hand gripping the nightstand so he didn't fall flat on the floor, he reached to his bunched up pants. Fiddling around with the jeans he finally found his pocket and pulled out the phone. Not recognizing the number he sighed, but answered anyways. "Yeah what do you want?"

"Pleasant, do you always answer potential paying customers like that?" asked a voice Nukha recognized to be Junyaho's

"Depends on how much they are paying me, so again, what do you want?" Nukha inquired.

"Well knowing you have such advanced technology at your fingertips and how innovative you are, I do have a request," Junyaho said on the other line.

"Yeah, yeah go on with it."

"So pushy... fine... I want you do design something that will aid Rei Hun to walk again."

"You are out of your damn mind," Nukha said. "Why in the hells do you even care about making Rei walk again?"

"Consider it a present to my mate to be, nonetheless, I am sure you can come up with something of the sort," Junyaho insisted. Nukha sighed and rubbed his face as he thought it over.

"Even if I could think and design something... a job like that... it would cost... hundreds of thousands of dollars... maybe even millions."

"Price is no object," Junyaho said smoothly. "Do we have an agreement or not?" he asked.

"All I can promise is to get a design developed, it may take some time, and the fail percentage will be the deciding factor of if it goes into production." Nukha said.

"Fair enough, what do I owe for at least a design?" asked Junyaho.

"Fifty thousand," Nukha said. "And more if needed."

"Alright, text me your account information and I will get the funds transferred over right away," Junyaho said "Oh and Nukha... this is just between you and me, if it turns out to be a success, tell Rei it’s a new innovation and he is just lucky enough to be the first test subject."

"That will cost a little extra you know." Nukha said.

"Of course," Junyaho said. With nothing more to say, Junyaho hung up the phone. With the connection ended, Nukha tossed his phone on the nightstand and sighed. The sound of the shower stopped and Pear walked into the bedroom with a towel wrapped around her. Nukha laid back on the bed and propped his arms behind his head as he let his blue eyes travel up and down her body. Pear caught his look.

“No-no mister, I just showered," she said.

"Now that isn't my fault now is it?" Nukha said with a devious smirk.

~~~~~~~

Nyiakole sat in her bed thumbing through some informational book Junyaho had left on her night stand. Written in her own dragonic language, it went into detail about the gestation cycle, birthing and even what the first few months with an infant could be like. She let her dark green eyes skim over the pages before she closed the book, let out a sigh. Setting the book back on the nightstand, Nyiakole laid back and looked up at the ceiling. She tried to picture how her life would be with Junyaho in it. How he might help, or rather order, on the raising of their child. Moving her hands to her stomach, she pictured what their child might look like. She thought about years into the future, how he might act or treat the life growing inside. If they had a daughter, would he ignore her, treat her like how Nyiakole’s own father treated her, or worse, snare his perverse attention. It was possible. But, what if they had a son. Would he grow to be just like Junyaho? That thought brought a wave of nausea to Nyiakole she didn’t expect to feel. Flinging herself out of bed, she barely made it to the bathroom before she started to wretch into the toilet. Breathing heavily as the vomiting subsided; Nyiakole looked up to see Junyaho standing there.

“Are you alright?” he asked in forced concerned.

“Yeah,” Nyiakole said shortly as she stood up. Moving to the sink, she splashed water on her face and patted it dry with a hand towel.  Glancing over at Junyaho as she placed the towel down she said, “I was just thinking about how much of a great parent you would be,” with distaste in her voice. Moving to go past him back into her bedroom, Junyaho grabbed her by her arm rather hard. Jerking her to face him, he pushed her hard against the door frame. Nyiakole glanced up at Junyaho with fear in her eyes.

“Don’t you ever you talk to me like that again bitch! Do you understand?” he growled out. With Nyiakole not saying a word, Junyaho pulled her from the doorway only to push her even harder against it. “I said do you understand?!”

“Yes.” Nyiakole meekly responded. Once he let her go, Nyiakole moved away from Junyaho. Instead of going back to her bed, she left the room, not wanting to even be close to him.

11: Chapter 11

The clicking sounds of heels echoed in the marble stone hallways of what Adarien had learned to call home. The exceptionally young female dragon was the mate of the King and her beauty made it understandable why the King had kept her around. Long, wavy hair the color of deep, rich amber was all twisted up into a bun; around it was a silver circlet that was in the shape of flames. Her eyes were a lighter version of her hair, surrounded by long lustrous eyelashes. Her skin was darker than most, and held a vibrant glow. These were all such unusual features for a dragon, but along with perfectly placed cheekbones, plump lips and curves that mimicked an hourglass, she was an exotic beauty compared to the average female dragon.

Adarien stopped in front of a large wooden door and took a breath. Even though he was her mate, she knew better to step out of line around him. However, the questionable way her young daughter was being raised was enough to raise her voice. Opening the door the large, brutish male sitting at the desk instantly glared up at her. She just waltzed right in unexpectedly and it irritated him.

"What?" Brixinoxx asked in his gruff voice, his deep red eyes burned at his young and at times, foolish mate. Adarien bit her bottom lip, but held her gaze at the King.

"It’s about Nyiakole," she said in a soft voice, bringing up their eleven year old. Her heart was pounding furiously in her chest. Never fully understanding why he kept her around other than he seemed fond of her at times, she knew he could banish her at any time making it so she could never see Nyiakole again, or worse. Brixinoxx huffed and looked back down at the report he was reading.

"As far as I am concerned she is fine," he said.

"No she isn't... Your constant pampering of her so you can keep her into her studies is spoiling her and is giving her an ego," Adarien said. “You should have seen the way she spoke to the servants this morning.” The King looked back up at the thin frail woman that stood before him. Typically quiet and obedient, she was now standing before him holding her ground on the risk she thought he was opposing on their daughter. It was admirable, but foolish in his stern eyes. 

"Adarien," he said in a deep, demanding voice. "I value your actions and instincts as a mother. Respect is something I always ensure that is passed to Nyiakole. Rest assured if I find she is acting out of line, it will not be for very much longer." Adarien looked at her mate before sighing and letting her amber eyes drop to the stone floor. Seeing the disappointment, Brixinoxx couldn't help but ask. "Is something not to your liking?" He inquired. Adarien looked back up. Knowing she should be subservient and appeasing, only truth found its way from her lips.

"You have entrusted me with birthing and nurturing our daughter, a so called prodigy in our race and the next heir to the throne, why do my words mean so little to you?" Brixinoxx raised his eye brows at her accusing statement.

"Do you not trust that I am raising her to be a proper respectful leader? Someone to use her brains as well as her blessed abilities?" he asked right back.

"No." Adarien said softly. Brixinoxx sat back in his chair, relaxing his elbows on the arm rests. He was actually quiet intrigued by her answer. Most that worked alongside him always agreed or did whatever they thought would be best to keep his temper under control. Here was his own mate, which was always supposed to be supportive, telling him she didn't like his views as a father. Silence filled the air as he mulled over thoughts.

"Come here," he finally said. Fear starting creeping into Adarien's heart. Feeling her legs become numb she started to slowly making her way to her mate. In just a few short moments, she was standing next to him. Brixinoxx reached up and taking a hold of her wrist pulled her down to where she was sitting in his lap. Adarien let out a small gasp. The King placed his hand under her chin to tilt her gaze up at him. "Adarien… I always have Nyiakole's best interest in mind. Voicing your concerns shows your dedication as a mother, it makes me feel like I have made an excellent choice in allowing you to bear me an offspring. I do not like or tolerate snippy bitches, so believe me when I say I will not allow our daughter to be so," He stated firmly.

"I will watch her actions more closely and have Marruu report to me more on her behavior then her education." Brixinoxx ran his hand through his mate's long wavy hair. "Now... why don’t you accompany me to the bedroom?" he asked. Adarien felt her heart flutter for a moment. Rarely did the King ever make such a request. He was always so busy with the happening of dragons and the world that being physically intimate in their mateship didn't happen very often. Because of their previous conversation, she wasn't in the mood for anything of the sort.

 "Of course my King," she said. Even though it came out a little bit rehearsed, Brixinoxx didn't seem to mind as he helped her to her feet before standing up himself. She was his mate, it is expected of her. She kept him pleased and he didn't turn from her. There were plenty of females that worked in his home that were servants and maid that he could easily have. As he lead her down the hallway Adarien kept thinking in her mind, she was lucky and it was honorable to be in the position she was in.

~~~~~~~

It didn't take very long for the young Nyiakole to prove her mother right. Sneaking away from her care taker was something she did often. After her lessons with Marruu were over, that was what she did. She had expert training in such an art, her hooligan brother Arson. He was always showing and teaching her things. Evading her nanny by using a recently learned invisibility spell, Nyiakole soon found herself leaving the estate. Going into Esbulin was something that was strictly off limits, but in the past year it was something she had been traveling into. Once out of the house, Nyiakole crept around the side of her massive home. Sneaking through the gardens, she made her way to the front gate where she openly waltzed passed two guards that were stationed there. They had been gossiping about a new maid in the house when the little dragon princess walked by them.

"Hey, hey, hey little girl, does your daddy know you are out here?" The younger of the guards asked. Nyiakole looked up at both the guards with her deep green eyes. She merely stuck her tongue out and kept on walking, leaving the safety of the estate. The older guard with a scruffy beard looked at the other.

"Are you going to tell the King?" he asked.

"Hell no, I still have a few bruises from last time," he said as he leaned back against the gate post.

"Salyur," The older one grumbled, insulting his fearful partner as he walked up to the house.

Once stepping onto the sidewalk of Esbulin's streets, Nyiakole felt a small rush, a sense of freedom from her reckless defiance. Esbulin was a large city, the largest non-human city in the world. Over thousands of years old, it had built and expanding with the ever changing world. Filled with homes, shops, malls, hospitals and anything else one could imagine. And like any city, there were sections. Some were dedicated to specific races and others depending on how much money was in the person's wallet. Nyiakole's family home was almost right in the middle of the city. The estate was large and private, filled with extravagant gardens on the property. Her father had it specially built just as the city started to rise and grow around the home. Traveling a few blocks away from the illustrious homes of the rich, Nyiakole ventured into a nearby market place. Walking up to a little stand she stood up on her tip toes and peered up a few shiny jewels. She hadn't been enchanted for very long when another little girl appeared and stood next to her. The girl was the same age as Nyiakole. Dark skinned, brown hair, furry gray ears and a stripped tail, the little girl resembled a raccoon. She had befriended Nyiakole on her little ventures outside the estate.

"Hey you finally made it back out again," The raccoon said. Nyiakole glanced over at her friend.

"Yeah... I didn't mean to be gone so long Pryxxa," she said. Pryxxa looked up at the gleaming jewels Nyiakole was just looking at.

"Hey I know a place where they have neater things, wanna come?" she asked. Nyiakole nodded.

"Of course!" Nyiakole said with enthusiasm. With the raccoon leading the way, Nyiakole followed her away from the market place and farther from her home. Entering a part of a city that didn't have the most admirable of people, they traveled down a set of stairs in an alleyway. At the bottom was a door that lead into a shop. Inside were rows and rows of tables with all sorts of items, weapons, books on magic, jewels and even potions. Esbulin was a lawless city; there wasn't police, authorities, jails, or even a mayor. If a crime were to happen it was resolved between the victim and the offender. However there was a level of honor in the city, open sale of stolen or black market good was hard to do in public on the streets. Thus, little fly-by shops, like the one Nyiakole and her friend just wandered into, would spring up for a short time

Traveling down the rows of tables, Nyiakole would occasionally peer at the goods. The little underground market was packed, most likely with thieves and murders trying to sell along with those in financial turmoil looking for something they needed for cheap. Nyiakole looked over her shoulder and noticed Pryxxa was no longer at her side. It was hard to see through the countless people shuffling around. After searching for a few minutes, Nyiakole gave up her hunt and heading for the door. There was suddenly a commotion coming from one of the tables. Listening, Nyiakole could catch what was wrong. An item was missing; there was a thief among thieves. Guards that had been hired to make sure such things didn't happen,  along to stop fights and arguments, blocked the exits. Everyone was starting to inquire another while pockets and bags were being checked. One merchant suddenly snatched Nyiakole's arm and pulled her close to him.

"Hey let me go!" she cried. The merchant lifted her up to her tip toes as he shoved his hands under her robes and into her pockets. From there he pulled a golden bracelet that was embedded with various jewels. Something that had to be originally worth hundreds of thousands.

"Children don't come here unless they are pickpockets," the merchant sneered. Nyiakole was shocked, her mouth hung agape.

"No no! I didn't take it I swear!" she protested, struggling to get out of the merchant's grip.

"You are a little thief and a little liar," he huffed out. One of the market guards came over and took Nyiakole from the merchant. Dragging the child over to one of the tables, he gripped her right hand and stretched it over the wooden surface. The merchant pulled out a sharp short sword. "Little thieves lose their hands so they won't be able to steal again." Nyiakole's eyes widen.

"No! Please! I swear! I didn't do it!" she cried as tears started forming in her eyes. The merchant raised the sword, as he was about to bring it down, a hand firmly gripped his so he couldn't deliver the de-limbing blow. The merchant looked over to seeing Marruu's fierce sapphire eyes glaring into his. The dragon tighten his grip and bent the merchant's arm back, making the sword drop from his hand. The clanging from the fall was louder than usual as the air was quiet and eyes were focused on the scene. The guard that was holding Nyiakole sneered as he looked Marruu up and down. The dragon stood in a more precise manner and was dressed in more elegant clothes. He was what they termed, an ‘uppity’.

"The little one be a thief and needs to learn a lesson," he said. Irritation laced in his voice at the interference of their idea of discipline. Marruu looked over at the guard casually.

"The only thing the child is guilty of is being foolish. And I assure you, King Brixinoxx will not appreciate it if you remove his daughter's hand." Both the merchant and the guard were unsure what to do or say. Living in Esbulin, they every well knew of who the King of Dragons was and they heard their share of horror stories about his temper. However it was only rumors that floated around that he had sired a daughter.

"Then explain the bracelet I found in her pocket," the merchant inquired.

"You have your stolen item so therefore it is no longer classified as stolen now is it?" Marruu asked. Tossing the merchant a small bag of jingling coins he turned to take Nyiakole from the guard. "I am sure that will be more than enough for the inconvenience." Gripping Nyiakole's arm and looking harshly down at her, Marruu lead her out of the market and back up to the streets of Esbulin.

Leading her home, Nyiakole could only hang her head in embarrassment and shame. She could only piece together that she had been tricked by Pryxxa to smuggle the item out so the raccoon wouldn't get caught herself. Once back inside her home, Marruu brought her right to her parents that were waiting in the main hall. Her father was sitting on a chair with the biggest scowl on his face. There was an empty glass sitting on the side table next to him, most likely some sort of alcoholic beverage to calm his fury, or enrage him more. Peering down at his daughter with a scowl, he simply waved his hand to let her have the floor and deliver an immediate explanation. Nyiakole stood there and looked at the floor. Her mother stood quietly next to her father.

"I.... uh... it’s.... I'm sorry," Nyiakole said. She had no excuses or reasons for her actions other then she thought she could get away with it.

"Sorry?! You are sorry?!" Her father exclaimed. "Fuck your sorry! You didn't care about my rules, you didn't care about your safety!" yelled her father as he stood up. "You didn't care about our worry! You could have died or worse! All you cared about was going out into the world to frolic, and all you offer is sorry. Fuck your sorry. You have no respect for me, your mother, your teacher or anyone. You blatantly disregarded and disrespected me and I will not tolerate it. Get your ass over here right now," he demanded pointing to the spot in front of him.

Nyiakole's heart started pounding as she realized the trouble she was in was immense. She took a shaky step as she approached her father. Once she was standing in front of him, she couldn't bring herself to look up at him. It didn't stop him from snatching her arm and turning her. With his other hand he swatted her backside, spanking her a few good times. It brought tears to her eyes but she didn't muffle a sound to anger her father more. Her father spun her around and lifted her up off the ground by her shoulders so they were face to face. "I don't ever want to have this conversation again, do you understand me?" he growled out. Nyiakole sniffled and nodded. "Good, stay out of my sight," he ordered. Setting her back down, Nyiakole scampered out of sight and to her room.

It was late in the night when Adarien made her way into Nyiakole's room. It hurt her heart to see Brixinoxx act so viciously towards her daughter. Shutting the door, the concerned dragon mother walked over to Nyiakole's bed and sat. She brushed the raven hair from her daughter's face causing her to stir, slowly awakening her daughter.

"Mommy? What is it?" Nyiakole asked as she rubbed her eyes. Adarien sighed as she looked down at her daughter. Laying down and cuddling up next her, she kept running her fingers through Nyiakole's hair.

"Nyiakole, do you really like all the things your father makes you do?" she asked. Nyiakole didn't seem to understand. Her vigorous strict schedule was how her life had always been.

"Daddy says I have to know how to be strong, he says I will be queen one day," Nyiakole said as she nuzzled against her mother.

"I know," Adarien said. "But don't..." she sighed. Adarien didn't know how to ask her daughter if she wanted to enjoy just being a child, with no pressures, no over bearing ill-tempered father, to enjoy living. "Don't some days you just want to play and not care about all the tough things?" she asked. Nyiakole hummed as she closed her eyes.

"That sounds like fun,” she asked sleepily. Adarien smiled.

"Do you want me to take you away from here Nyiakole?" she asked softly. "Do you want to leave this all behind and go someplace better?" Nyiakole nodded.

"Yeah," Nyiakole muttered in her tiredness. With that said, Adarien started to think of a way for her and her daughter to leave.

 

~~~~~~~~

 

Brixinoxx sat at the table in his home's lavish dining room. Taking a rare moment to enjoy breakfast, he had requested his young daughter join him. In the past few days, things had been strange and he was going to inquire his daughter about it. As she entered the dining room and sat down, Nyiakole started piling her plate with food. She glanced over at her father who was just watching her.

"Are you still mad at me?" she asked quietly. She had done her best to avoid crossing paths with her father. She was surprised to hear this morning he wanted to eat breakfast with her. Brixinoxx hummed as he sat back in his chair.

"A little. It makes me mad that you put yourself in a stupid position," he said. "I am glad you are alright though, just thank your stars that Marruu got there when he did." Nyiakole picked at her food as her father reminded her about how close she was to a terrible fate.

"I really am sorry, I didn't mean to make you mad," she said softly.

"I know you didn't Nyiakole, but you must always think about how your actions will affect others. You must always be aware of others, to not let them take advantage of you," her father lectured. Moments ticked by as they ate in silence. Brixinoxx kept his dark red eyes on his daughter. "Your mother..." he said getting Nyiakole's attention. "She has been acting peculiar as of late. She doesn't seem to want to talk to me as much. Has she said anything about being mad at me?" he asked curiously. "If I had upset her in anyway, I want to make things right between us." Nyiakole sat back in her chair.

"I..." she trailed off. Her mother had told her not to say anything about their departure. ".... Don’t know" Nyiakole said. Raising an eyebrow Brixinoxx leaned forward to rest his elbows on the table. He could tell by his daughter being hesitant that she really did know something.

"Nyiakole...." he said giving her an accusing glare. His daughter shifted uncomfortably

"Mommy said I wasn't supposed to tell. You might get mad, I don't like to see you two mad all the time at each other," Nyiakole said.

"Nyiakole... this must be something important, do you think I shouldn't know?" Brixinoxx asked his daughter. Nyiakole bit her bottom lip.

"I....uhhh..." she said not sure what to say or what she should do.

"Nyiakole," Her father said, expecting her to answer with the truth.

"Mommy said.... she said we are going away... She doesn't want us to live here anymore, but she didn't want to tell you because you would get mad," Nyiakole admitted. She looked up at her father and saw the fury in his eyes. His jaw clenched tightly as his fists closed, but he didn't lash out at his daughter. He reached over and patted her head.

"Go on to your studies," he simply said. Nyiakole felt a knot starting to form in her stomach. Perhaps she shouldn't have said anything at all. She hoped she wouldn't get in trouble with her mother. Leaving the table Nyiakole went to find Marruu for her day's lessons. The whole time during her lectures and learning Nyiakole couldn't help but let her thought dwell in what she told her father. She didn't see her mother the rest of the day, but that could be normal at times. Going to bed, young Nyiakole just stared up at her ceiling most of the night. Morning came around and as she got ready for the day, she was informed by Marruu that her mother passed away during the night.

~~~~~~~~~

Nyiakole rested her forehead against the window, peering out onto the streets of New York City. Sine her encounter with Junyaho the other day, her thoughts kept drifting back to her mother. Nyiakole wondered if this was how she felt, trapped with her father like how Nyiakole now felt trapped with Junyaho. She wondered if their child would grow up in a home she did. The fighting, her parents disliking each other, her mother always scared of her father. The hopelessness and pain she could see in her mother’s eyes. Nyiakole then couldn’t help but wonder if her fate would eventually be the same.

She had been told that her mother passed away in her sleep, but Nyiakole was no idiot. She knew what happen, even at the young age of eleven. Her father found out that her mother was going to take Nyiakole away, and killed her. Nyiakole let out a deep sigh, fogging up the glass. Trying to pull her thoughts away from her mother, Nyiakole then thought about Rei. Every time she saw him, he was hopeless and depressed as well. She wasn’t sure if Junyaho would come through on his promise to make Rei walk again, or how long it could take, but she wanted to see him happy again. If only for a little while. 

12: Chapter 12

Chapter 12:

Pressing his forehead against the window, Rei just sat in the car with a depressed air around him. After much coaxing and convincing from his sister Ami, Rei finally found the will to get out of the bed. He had been laying in it for days, along with his self pity. Ami had told them that they were going somewhere, but she never said where. Wherever it was it was far away from New York City. He had been sitting in the car for at least three hours and he was starting to regret it. They drove on however, weaving around and up and down a heavily wooded area. Looking at the scenery, Rei could tell they were driving up to some kind of mountain range. Finally he let out a sigh.

"Ami, where in the hell are we going?" he asked. Ami looked at her brother and placed a finger to her lips.

"It’s a surprise. Just enjoy the ride," she said.

"It’s been three hours, come on!" Rei said a bit impatiently.

"Shh," his sister ordered. Rei grumbled and crossed his arms. He didn't say another word. Soon the car turned off the main road onto a thin dirt one and spent the next forty five minutes driving deeper and deeper into the wooded mountains. The car at last came to a halt in a small clearing. Ami quickly got out of the car and ran over to the other side to help her grumpy brother out. Holding his wheelchair steady, Rei used his arm strength to slide out of the car and into the wheelchair. With Ami pushing him, once he was around the car he could see Nukha and Pear standing there.

"Alright can someone please tell me what is going on? Why did everyone drag me out to the middle of nowhere?" Rei asked. Nukha stood coyly with his hands behind his back as he rocked back and forth on his feet.

"Oh? Why? The car ride a bit too long for you Rei?" he asked with a smirk on his face. Rei looked unamused.

"Nukha.... come on... this is really starting to get irritating." Rei said. "What is going on?"

"Mmm.... why don't you ask her?" Nukha said, nodding over to an empty spot in the clearing. Rei was puzzled, but soon all became clear. Shimmering into existence, Nyiakole appeared in her full dragon form. Although she wasn't as big as most dragons, as she was still growing, her form was massive and impressive. Slightly larger than that of a horse, her black scales shinned in the sunlight.

"Nyiakole?" Rei gasped. "What? Why did you bring me here?" Nyiakole craned her neck down to be eye level with Rei.

"To go on a ride," her voice softly whispered in his mind.

"What? I already rode in the car for over three hours!" Rei acclaimed. He could hear a sweet chuckle of Nyiakole's dance in his thoughts.

"Not a ride like this one I assure you." Nyiakole turned to her side to show Rei the specially made saddle which was mounted on her back.

“Nyia…I…” Rei stuttered.

“Oh shut up, and get on,” Nukha chimed on. “I bet you have been dying to ride her anyways,” he added, earning a smack in the chest from Pear. Rei shot Nukha an un-amused look.

“Come on big brother, not many ever get the chance to say they flew with a dragon,” said Ami as she pushed her brother’s wheelchair closer to Nyiakole. Lowering herself to the ground, Nyiakole made it easier for Ami and Nukha to help Rei out of the wheelchair and up into the saddle. Nukha double checked all the straps before he patted Nyiakole’s side.

“Alright princess, he is all ready to go.”

“Are you sure?” Both Nukha and Rei would hear in their mind.

“Yes, let’s just go,” sighed out Rei.

“Hold on tight.” Doing as she asked, Rei gripped the straps at the base of her neck tightly. He was glad he did, because not a moment after, Rei felt himself suddenly be propelled upwards as used her powerful wings to rise off the ground and quickly into the sky, leaving everyone else on the ground in a cloud of dust.  Soon they were high above the trees.  Looking down at the landscape, Rei suddenly felt a sense of weightlessness as Nyiakole slowed to a stop and then let gravity drive her down. He had never been on one of those bungee rides, but he was sure it felt similar. As Nyiakole fanned out her wings, there was a slight jerk as they stopped going down, but inside started gliding forward.

“Are you alright?” he heard Nyiakole ask in his mind. Even though she couldn’t see it, Rei nodded.

“Yes, just a bit of a rough take off, at least for a ride.” Rei replied with a small smile.  Pushing himself up more in the saddle, Rei looked out at the landscape. They were above the trees, but not high up in the sky. “So are we going to just glide around? Or will you show me what you can do?”

“You won’t puke will you?”

“I think I will be alright.” Rei said with a mild chuckle. As Nyiakole started to beat her wings faster and harder, Rei gripped the saddle tighter as he could feel gravity pressing down on his as they gained altitude.  With Nyiakole angling her body upwards, he was glad he was strapped in as he started to feel his body pull away from the saddle.

“Lean down, let the air flow over you, not against you,” Nyiakole advised.  Doing as she instructed, Rei leaned over. No longer feeling like he was being pulled from the saddle, he wrapped his arms around the base of Nyiakole neck in case he was jerked around that he wouldn’t lose his balance. Feeling the sense of weightlessness again as Nyiakole stopped ascending; Rei was surprised as she angled her body down in a dive. Tucking her wings to the side, the speed they were heading down was a little alarming, but Rei trusted Nyiakole wouldn’t crash them into the trees. To add to the matter, Nyiakole suddenly rotated her body in a few spins before fanning out her wings. It took a moment for the dizziness to leave Rei as Nyiakole leveled out, but it was short lived as the speed she accumulated from the dive swiftly sent them through the sky, right above the trees.

As they started to slow down, Nyiakole began to beat her wings fiercely to keep up the speed and to once again rise. Flying high into the sky and reaching the peak, Rei found himself clinging tightly to Nyiakole as she leaned backwards instead of diving down forward. It was certainly a different sensation of being upside down, it was one Rei didn’t really like. After she completed the backwards loop, Nyiakole sent the next half hour zipping and zooming, spinning and looping around the secluded area, she gently landed on a small rocky perch that overlooked the wooden mountain range and away from everyone else.

 It took quite a few minutes for Rei to unstrap himself from the saddle and carefully slid his body down Nyiakole’s side. Using the muscles in his arms while hanging onto Nyiakole for support, he was able to carefully sit on the ground with his useless legs sprawled out before him. It made his heart sink and misery creep in every time he had to look at them.  As her body emitted a soft glow, Rei shielded his eyes as Nyiakole shifted to her human appearance.

“Are you naked?” Rei asked as he kept his eyes covered.

“No, I am just wearing invisible clothes,” Nyiakole replied sarcastically. Taking out a small blanket that was packed in a bag that was built into the saddle, she wrapped it around herself before sitting down next to Rei. “It’s safe to look.” Rei hesitantly pulled his hand away from his eyes as he glanced over at Nyiakole. They didn’t say anything for the longest time as they simply looked at the landscape before them. It was getting late in the day and the sky was starting to change colors as the sun began to set.

“So, why all this Nyiakole?” Rei finally asked.

“Was it not fun?” Nyiakole counter asked. Leaning back, Rei propped himself up on his hands.

“It was fun. I never experienced anything like it before I have to say.”

“Then don’t question it,” said Nyiakole. “Everything has been so hard right now, and so confusing. I just… felt that we should have some fun.”

“No one else got a ride,” Rei pointed out.

“Everyone else can walk,” Nyiakole said rather bluntly. As Rei turned his head away from her, Nyiakole reached out and placed her hand on his un-feeling leg. “And no one else is my friend like you. You nearly killed yourself to save me.”

“I don’t want your pity Nyiakole.”

“I don’t pity. I wanted to show you that there are still amazing things left. I don’t want to see you laying in that bed feeling sorry for yourself anymore,” Nyiakole explained. “You may not be able to walk right now, but you will always be able to fly as long as I am around.” Rei turned his head back to look at Nyiakole. He glanced down at her hand before placing his over hers.

“Flying hmm? I guess that is the greatest gift I could ever get from a friend.”

“Guess? You guess?! It is!” Nyiakole exclaimed with a smile which made Rei laugh.

“Alright. It is,” he said. Holding Nyiakole’s hand, he stroked his thumb gently against her skin without thinking about it. “So… I heard that Junyaho proposed? Or something like that?” It was Nyiakole’s turn to look away.

“We… came to an agreement,” she commented.

“Nyiakole… why? I thought you couldn’t stand him,” Rei question.

“I can’t… but, he is the father of this baby,” Nyiakole explained as she placed her free hand on her rounding stomach. “I can’t… do… this alone. I don’t want to,” she said softly.

“You weren’t alone.”

“I know, I mean like…” she paused with a sigh. “Junyaho, he has power and money and security. Trust me Rei I didn’t make this choice lightly, but I did it... for everyone.”

“I just hope you know what you are doing,” Rei huffed out.

“I don’t need you to judge me Rei, I need your support… as a friend.” Feeling Rei squeeze her hand, Nyiakole looked over at him.

“I am here for you, whenever you need me Nyiakole,” said Rei gently. Nyiakole leaned over and rested her head on his shoulder. They stayed that way for a few long minutes before Nyiakole sighed and pulled away.

“Come on now, we need to get back.”

13: Chapter 13

In his home in Sweden, Junyaho sat at his desk, mindless shuffling through emails and reports he let pile up. There were three established clans in the dragon race, and he was lord over one of them. In his dealings with Nyiakole and that silly bar of hers, he had let his responsibilities slip. Not only did he have to manage the roughly over two thousand members a part of his clan that were scattered about worldwide, he had to deal with various organizations, leaders of other races, and the high ups in the human governments.

However with all the work that had piled up, he couldn’t keep his attention on it. He knew Nyiakole had taken everyone out for some kind of surprise for Rei. It was making him angry about how much she cared for the human.  Rei wasn’t going to be her mate, he was, Lord Junyaho. He paid to fix the bar, he is providing everything she needs and anything she wants, hell he is even funding the tech geek Nukha to make some device so Rei could walk again. Yet, she didn’t even look his way whenever he was around. With a grumble, Junyaho closed his laptop and leaned back in his chair as he placed his hands on his face.

Hearing a small knock on the door, Junyaho glanced over to see one of the maid servants he kept around the house. “Yes, what is it?” he asked gruffly. The maid walked into the office carrying a cup with freshly brewed coffee.

“You have seemed stressed my Lord, so I brought you some coffee,” she said.  Junyaho nodded and the maid set the cup down on his desk.

“You know, there is another way you can help relieve some stress,” Junyaho commented as the maid was about to leave. The maid paused before she turned back to Junyaho. She bowed her head in a sign of submission and respect before she got down on her knees. As she unbuckled Junyaho’s pants, he leaned back in his chair. This wasn’t the first time he used this maid, or any other that worked in his house. They were whores among their race. Young and foolish, they would easily spread their legs to the first male who whispered a sweet word to them. Once the male would up and leave, they were left with a ruined reputation and little chance of getting any mateship offers. Typically they were cast out of their family only to end up as this young maid on her knees in front of Junyaho.

Junyaho placed a hand on top of the maid’s head as she worked her mouth up and down his harden manhood. He let out a soft moan as her sucks became a little firmer. She reached up and gripped the base of his cock, pumping her hand up and down what she couldn’t pleasure with her mouth.

“That’s it,” groaned Junyaho. Running his fingers through her brown hair, Junyaho then pushed her head down further on his cock. “Take all of it.” He could feel the maid whimper against his cock and that aroused Junyaho even more. Sitting up, Junyaho placed a hand on each side of her head. Forcing her to move her head up and down faster, he started to thrust his hips against her. Even though he could still feel her whimpers vibrate against his throbbing shaft, she didn’t try and pull away. She remained submissive and even started sucking harder. Reaching the climax of his pleasure, Junyaho let out a rough growl as his seed spilled into the maid’s mouth. Relaxing back in his chair, the maid swirled her tongue around his manhood, cleaning him. He petted her head, wishing it was Nyiakole who was so eager to suck him off instead of this whore. He was distracted from his thoughts as his cell phone started to ring. “Take the rest of the day off,” he said to the maid as he waved his hand to dismiss her. As she stood up and left, Junyaho adjusted himself back into his pants as he answered the phone.

"Hello?"

"Junyaho I presume? This is Hwang Hyuuk-soon of the Yakuza; Rei's father. I was hoping I could ask a mutual favor from you." The voice was calm yet stern giving the idea of Hwang being quite full of his power and influence as he wouldn't change his tone even towards a dragon. Junyaho was mildly surprised that he was getting such a call from such a person.

"This is... go on," Junyaho encouraged, curious as to why this man was calling.

"Very well then. I'll let it be your choice. Either Leave Chaotic Nights with Nyiakole or force Rei to leave Chaotic Nights. Hell, you can even beat him senseless and then throw him out for all I care. You get the general idea, I can't stand him being there any longer and I know you feel the same way. I've been working on getting Rei back to Korea for over 10 years now and once you do this, it'll be easier for me to accomplish this and easier  for you to tend to your own plans with Nyiakole, regardless of what that may be. It's none of my concern or caring" Hwang smoothly said. Junyaho let out a heavy sigh as he leaned back in his chair. He didn't really like the way this... man... was talking to him, but the idea of beating Rei amused him greatly, though with him being in the condition he was in now, it wouldn't take a lot of effort. The big problem laid in Nyiakole finding out. She would have to leave if he was to cast out Rei, somewhere where she couldn’t see him do it.

"And what if I just say no and we all stay there?" he asked curiously. Hwang humphed and chuckled.

"Please, Junyaho, don't fool yourself. If you do stay, then I'll wait until the time comes when Rei will take Nyiakole away from you and out of Chaotic Nights. Do you really think Rei will ever trust you with her for the rest of her life? Probably as we speak, he's weighing on when and how to run away with Nyiakole....and Rei will be the one to father your child, in the end." Hwang took a pause and sits in a chair feeling more smug and confident. "As old and intelligent as you are, Junyaho, you have a lot to learn of human hearts and ambition. The reason Nyiakole isn't strong now is because of her affiliation with them for so long and Rei will, if not already, be the finishing blow to whatever promising future she may have. She will indeed be a waste of a dragon if she stays with Rei. Junyaho, I think you can understand that better than how I tell it to you." Hwang's slight lies were meant to be hard hitting, but he'd do what it would take to make everything come together. Junyaho couldn't help but add in his own chuckle, he knew the possibility of what Hwang said was true, but the idea of them actually doing so was prosperous.

"Even if that happens Hwang, Rei can't protect her for the rest of her life. In the short time they would be together, they would live in a life full of fear and constantly looking over their shoulder, and then she would be heartbroken as his short pathetic human life ended." Junyaho said. He knew Hwang was trying to poke some sore spots, and it did make him a little aggravated by his attempts.

"Hmm... As I've said, I don't need to explain how bad it is for Nyiakole with Rei being near her. I would appreciate your cooperation in this matter, Junyaho. Things will go a lot easier for the both of us. I'll get my son back and you'll have more time with Nyiakole. I trust you can think a good enough story to tell her upon leaving. I wouldn't want the two of them trying to get back together. Oh and one more small favor, if you see Ami, torment her in some way if you can. I don't care how or if it kills her. She shouldn't have been born in the first place," Hwang sneered a bit at his last couple statements in disgust never ever wanting a daughter in his family. Hwang hangs up the phone, not giving Junyaho another word, but trusted him to do it. Everything was in order now and it was only a matter of time.

"Ya know, sometimes I wonder if you're even human, yourself," said a voice. Hwang kept his back turned to Mocsha who sat on his desk, munching on an apple.

"Being human is my only regret," Hwang replied

"Uh-huh," Mocsha says as he bites the apple and speaks with his mouth full "So I got free reign on the dragons, but not your kids, is that right?"

"For now... that is if you can actually kill her this time."

"As long as her desperate boyfriends don't get in my way, she's all mine,” Mocsha said with a wicked grin.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

"Ugg..." grunted Nyiakole. She moved her hands over her rounding stomach as she studied herself in the mirror. She knew there was a baby growing inside her, but it still made her feel so fat... maybe because she was eating so much more lately. Even though she was a little over three months along, it would appear she was already more than half way through her pregnancy. A typical dragon gestation was between five and seven months, it would seem she would be on the shorter end of that time line. She continued to examine herself as she moved her hands up to her breasts. They had definitely become more noticeable.  Letting her eyes wander over her body, Nyiakole left her bathroom and into her bed room to get dressed. It was starting to get cold as winter was quickly approaching. Nyiakole didn't like the cold, and being pregnant, it was even more difficult to keep herself warm. Typically a dragon's body temperature was around 105 degrees, and the cold air was just bringing it down. It made her even more tired, sluggish and irritable. She placed on an undershirt with a black sweater on top and thick sweat pants. Sitting on the edge of her bed, Nyiakole struggled to place on purple fuzzy socks when a knock on her door caught her attention.

"It’s open" she grunted out as she tried to reach her foot, hindered by expanding stomach. Opening the door, Rei wheeled himself in to see Nyiakole’s struggle, riding along in his lap was a gift bag. A chuckle escaped his lips.

"At least I can still put on my socks," he said. Sighing Nyiakole let herself fall back against the bed and lifted her foot.

 "Help," she whined. Moving over to the bed, Rei took the sock from Nyiakole and placed it on her foot. "So what do you got there?" inquired Nyiakole. Humming, Rei answered.

 "Just a little gift."

 "...For me?" Nyiakole asked sitting up once her socks were on.

 "Maybe..."

 "Rei..."

 "Alright, yeah... who else would it be for?" Rei said, handing her the gift bag. With a smile on her face, Nyiakole opened the bag and peaked inside. Reaching in, she pulled out a small box of heart shaped, chocolate covered snack cakes. With a giggle, Nyiakole looked at Rei.

 "You have been craving them right?" he asked. Nyiakole nodded.

"Yeah like crazy," she said. Reaching into the bag once more, Nyiakole pulled out a picture frame. It was silver and engraved at the bottom in black was 'perfect family' in cursive.

"You can place a picture of you and the baby in there, once he or she born," Rei explained. Nyiakole smiled.   

"Thank you Rei, I really like it," she said. Pointing to the bag, Rei faked coughed slightly.

"There is a card in there too." Investigating the bag, Nyiakole found the card and opened it. She let her green eyes slowly go over the words Rei had written. She felt a swell in her chest as she looked at Rei.

"This is... you are... thank you," Nyiakole stumbled, trying to find the right words. She leaned over as she embraced him. Rei wrapped his arms around her as well.

"I am glad you like it Nyiakole. I know it isn't much, but... " he started to say.

"It’s perfect," Nyiakole said as she pulled away from Rei.   

"Now, do you want to go down to the bar, I am sure you are hungry with the way you have been eating."

"Rei Hun! Don't ever comment about how much a woman eats! Especially a pregnant one…  now you read my mind, let's go,” she said. On their way out of the room, they were passed by Junyaho, back from his short trip to Sweden.

"Where are you going?" he asked, eying both of them.

"Down stairs to eat of course," Nyiakole said as she kept walking along side Rei. Junyaho sighed as he continued into the room. He immediately noticed the gift bag and the items laying on the bed. He looked at the picture frame before he spied the card. Picking it up he read was written on the inside.

Nyiakole, I know the situation you are in wasn't by your choice, but I am so proud of you as you stand firmly by your decisions. Your life is your own and the only person you should ever worry about making happy is yourself. You are a smart, beautiful young woman and I am glad to be your friend. If you every need anything, I am here for you.

    Rei

Junyaho grumbled as he tossed the card on the bed. Hwang was right, Rei had to fucking go. Pulling out his cell phone, he began to make a few arrangements.

Downstairs in the bar, Nyiakole was sitting at the bar as Rei sat next to him in his wheelchair. Both were currently munching on a simple beef fried rice Rei made.

"So how are you adjusting to that?"  Nyiakole asked curiously.

"It’s a little hard to get use to, but I am getting the hang of it," Rei said as he ate his meal. Junyaho soon joined them downstairs. He approached Nyiakole, standing behind her and placed his hands on her shoulders. He took a moment to look her over, seeing how overdressed in winter clothes she was. This was perfect for what he had in mind.

"Are you that cold?" He asked simply. Nyiakole was quiet; it made her uncomfortable with his hands on her.

"Yeah, I don't want to hurt the baby by raising my body temperature," She softly explained. Rei sat and kept quiet. He knew of the choice Nyiakole made, but Junyaho’s presence still irritated him.

"Well this building is old, I am sure the heating system is as well, what if I upgrade it? Get something newer and more efficient installed?" suggested Junyaho. Nyiakole wasn't sure what to say.

"That sounds.... great.... won't that... be a lot of work around here though?" She asked, picking at her food.

"It might, so I was thinking, while they update it, why don't you go somewhere a little bit more warm and tropical, relax and I will get everything ready for the baby here," Junyaho said. Looking over at Rei, Nyiakole was a little suspicious.

 "I don't know... if I really want to leave here."

 "I know you don't, but it’s what I think is best. Everything has been so stressful for you. I just want you and the baby to be safe. I want you both to have a nice warm home to come back to," Junyaho persuaded in a slightly firm tone, hinting to Nyiakole that this was more of an order, not a request.

"What about the demon who wants to kill Nyiakole?" Rei asked, interjecting himself into the conversation.

"It’s been weeks... he might not try again, and I wouldn't send Nyiakole away alone without a few of my most trusted to watch over her," Junyaho ensured.

"...Well …I guess the sun and a beach sounds nice,” she said, trying to be a little enthusiastic about being forced away.

"Good, I have a car on its way to pick you up." Junyaho said. "Come on, I will help you pack your bags." As Junyaho and Nyiakole left to go back upstairs, it wasn't long before the driver showed up and whisked Nyiakole away. Rei stayed down in the bar, cleaning up the mess from cooking lunch. He once again was joined by Junyaho.

"Can I speak to you?" The Dragon Lord asked. Rei sighed.

"Yeah I guess so," he said.

"Good.... I want you to leave Rei, I don't want you to be around Nyiakole anymore." Junyaho said firmly. Rei paused at hearing Junyaho's demand and stared at him for a few moments before finally speaking

"You seriously think I can leave her with you? YOU of all people? You're nuts, Junyaho." Deep inside, Rei knew he was in trouble. Junyaho was many times stronger than him and now Nyiakole wasn't around to even defend him. He knew Junyaho sending her away was suspicious, he should have seen this coming. Junyaho casually looked at Rei.

"So what? Are you going to take care of her and our child?" he asked. "How can you? Let's be real, you know nothing of dragons and their needs, let alone a hatchling? Why... why don't you want to leave her? Why do you feel the need to stay by her? Do you like her, love her?" Junyaho asked. "If so, keep dreaming, she is mine, if you want her, you will have to challenge me and win," Junyaho said, his expression serious.

"Why, you ask? Why haven't I left yet?...To be honest, It...It is like I watching former self. It's nothing I expect you to understand......ever. All the pain she's gone through, all the strings tugging her emotions from every which way, I know it. I've been through it and I don't want to see another fall as low as I have just because I was born to a beast of a father!" Rei said. His father....the very mention of him made his blood boil to no end. He paused in silence, but his face scowled while looking away, remembering all those horrific times "You're barely any different than him, Junyaho. You talk the same, act the same, and think the same...It's like asking my father to watch over Nyiakole...I just can't let it be like that." Junyaho listened to what Rei said and then sighed.

"I understand your attachment to her, but Rei, get over yourself, you can't save her from what she is, what we are, and we are dragons," he said. "She is just a young and naive one. You think and act like she is so innocent, when she isn't Rei. You only compare me to your father cause I did one little thing to piss you off, Rape is the only thing you have hanging over my head right now, and just because of that, it doesn't mean I am a lousy caretaker or will be a lousy father," Junyaho said. "Look I am trying to make this easy, just go pack your shit and get out of here." Rei heard that first phrase in so many ways. How could Junyaho say who Nyiakole was? The same way his father told him who he was and what his mother and sister were...The words echoing in his mind, he suddenly slams his fist against the counter top of the bar.

"NO ONE HAS THE RIGHT TO SAY WHO OR WHAT SHE IS EXCEPT HERSELF!!!" he said, jabbing his finger at Junyaho "NO ONE!!!...I don't even care if she creates the apocalypse or cures cancer...She's going to decide what she does for herself...and not for anyone else! It's why she's still carrying your child, Junyaho, not because you want her to, but because she wants to!" His words were as if he was shouting his mind at his father. Rei began to no longer care how he'd walk away from this; at least his conscience would be clear. Junyaho was a bit surprised at Rei's little outburst, but didn't show it in his face.

"I know that Rei," Junyaho said with a sigh. "I know she wants to and I already expressed my gratitude to her for it." He unfolded his arms and stood up straight. "Okay, so if you are going to be a little bitch about this, I will try a different tactic," Junyaho said as he started to walk out of the room. He stopped and looked back at Rei. "Ami stays in your room right?" he asked almost devilishly, waiting for Rei's answer. Now the nightmares were materializing once more. All the things they did to Ami...Rei was losing his mind at the very idea of it happening again. Rei clenches his fists harder, glaring at Junyaho and gritting his teeth...

"You... are threatening my sister?!" he said through gritted teeth. Very briefly, one of Rei's eyes flashes a different color, but goes back to normal. Junyaho shrugged his shoulders, not noticing the quick change.

"Well you are not cooperating, maybe I can get some sense knocked into you by showing you how serious I am," he said. "Your room right?" he asked again. He then looked back at Rei once more. "Don't worry, I don't think I will rape her, I don't think she would put up that much of a fight, to easy, I will save the energy and just kill her alright?" he taunted. "That is unless you leave,” Violent thoughts ran rampant through Rei's head as he simply wanted to tear apart that smug face inch by inch. But suddenly, he stops and slumps his head down.

"...Fine...I'll go then,” Rei said in defeat. He slowly wheeled himself over to where Junyaho was standing and looked up at him with a firm expression. "Consider this a challenge. If anything happens to her, I will come to save her...and defeat you."

"Fine," Junyaho said, not taking his threat seriously. The Dragon Lord returned upstairs, taking out his phone he sent a text to Nukha. 'Cancel my request for Rei, keep the money'

14: Chapter 14

The room was so empty. The bed was slightly made up, just the blanket thrown over disarrayed sheets, the furniture had a light layer of dust, drawers were empty and left open. Nyiakole kept gazing at the room Rei and Ami had stayed in. She ended up being gone for nearly three weeks in the company of Junyaho shady second in command, Dibbeth, and she came back to a warm, but empty bar. Junyaho was constantly busy in his work as he tried to smooth things out with her father. He explained that Rei had important things to do and couldn't wait for her to get back to say good bye.

Nyiakole knew it was a lie and there was nothing she can do about it. Even Pear was gone. She should have known Junyaho would run everyone off. Being home for a week, Nyiakole kept stopping by Rei and Ami's old room and almost expected to see them there. Letting out a sigh, she finally managed to push herself in. She shut all the open drawers and made up the bed more properly. Checking a few closed drawers, she made sure nothing was left behind. Surprisingly, she had found a small snack cake in the nightstand. It was heart shaped and covered in chocolate, the kind she had been craving in her pregnancy.

Written on it were symbols she recognized to be Korean. Pulling her phone from her pocket, she researched the translation which turned out to be 'for a special one'.  It brought a smile to her face, but a deep sadness in her heart. Getting the room a little bit more tidy, Nyiakole went back to her room to get ready for the night. She slipped off her clothes, leaving them in a heap on the floor and placed her hands on her round stomach. Junyaho estimated she had less than a month to go. The thought of giving birth soon was a terrifying one. She had no idea what she was going to do or how to be a mother.

Shaking her head and sighing, Nyiakole pushed the thoughts from her mind and dressed in red and green flannel pajamas. Striding over to the window she watched as snowflakes fell from the sky and began to stick everywhere. Hearing a creak from the floorboard, she turned to see Junyaho walking into the room to get ready for bed as well. She turned her attention back to the window until she felt his hand on her shoulder. Turning to face him, Nyiakole became flushed in the face and a sense of dread in the pit of her stomach. He was naked. Pulling Nyiakole close, Junyaho moved her hair to the side and started kissing along her neck.

"Junyaho.... no..." Nyiakole said gently as she tried to push him away. She heard a deep grumble of irritation emit from him.

"Why?" he demanded. "Are you not to be my mate? Have I not taken care of you and this stupid bar, have I not provided everything for you? Have I not earned the right to have you spread your legs to me?"

"No Junyaho... I just... I am not ready, I don't want to tonight" Nyiakole tried to argue without making him more angry.

"Not ready? Not ready?!" Junyaho shouted. "He is not coming back! You are mine and you are going to act as a mate should!" Aggressively grabbing Nyiakole by the hair, he pulled her away from the window and threw her on the bed. Laying on her back, Nyiakole looked up at Junyaho with teary eyes as he loomed over her.

"J... Junyaho... please," Nyiakole stuttered. Her head violently flung to the side, her cheek burning in pain as Junyaho slapped her.

"Shut up, I am tired of dealing with all your bull shit,” he growled out. With his claws he ripped off her pajama pants. Nyiakole didn't look back at Junyaho as he parted her legs. With her eyes clamped shut and tears flowing out of them, Junyaho roughly violated her once more. The pain was just as bad as the first time months ago in his apartment. He stretched her agonizingly as he sunk himself deep into her as her body was not aroused or ready for sex.

"Stop it hurts," Nyiakole tried to plead. Gripping her jaw tightly, Junyaho jerked her head back over to look at him.

"I said shut up," he growled. "We are mates, and I am tired of fucking my whores." Nyiakole's body quivered under Junyaho as her lips trembled. She tried to keep her focus off of what was happening and the pain. Once Junyaho finished, he leaned down and bit Nyiakole's neck, right where it curved into her shoulder, marking her as his.

"I expect better from you next time," he said gruffly, getting up from the bed. He made his way over to the bathroom and slammed the door shut. Nyiakole slowly sat up. Her emotions choked their way up as she placed her head in her hands and began to sob.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~

 

At his home in his office, Nukha's blue eyes intensely watched his computer screen. Using the cameras he had set up with Pear months ago, he had been keeping an eye on Chaotic Nights. Playing on the screen now was Junyaho forcing himself on Nyiakole. Leaning forward and propping his elbow on the edge of the desk, he took a long drag from his cigarette.

"Aww hell sweet cheeks," he muttered to himself. Hearing the door open, he glanced over his shoulder to see his head maid and personal assistant, Susan, enter. The sophisticated blonde came to his side and looked at the screen as well, eventually turning her eyes away from the rape, disgusted at the sight. "Please tell me that the necessary modifications are almost done," Nukha asked as he rubbed his temple.

"Yes sir, they are putting on the finishing touches as we speak," Susan said.

"Good," Nukha stated. Leaning back in his chair, he took one last draw from his cigarette before flicking it into the trash. "Is Rei ready for surgery?"

"Yes sir," Susan replied. Ami, Rei and Pear had all been staying in Nukha's home. The siblings because they had nowhere else to go, and Pear upon his request. Nukha didn't want to leave her exposed to Junyaho with Nyiakole out of town.

"Excellent" Nukha replied.

"Sir?"

"Yes Susan?"

"Do you... do you think Rei even has a chance?" she asked. Nukha sighed as shrugged his shoulders.

"We can only hope so, but a dragon lord may soon be the least of their problems" Nukha said. Susan, puzzled asked.

"Sir, what do you mean?" Nukha turned to another screen that was sitting on his desk. Pictured there were four squares that were focused on different parts of Chaotic Nights.

“There has been some interesting activity in the bar," Nukha commented. Typing on the key board and clicking a few areas with his mouse, the scenes at the bar reversed in time. Nukha waited and watched until he got to the right moment in time he wanted. Stopping the reversal, Nukha pointed to the bottom right screen. "There watch," he instructed. The camera had been pointed down the second level hallway. From the shadows stepped a blonde headed female in very skimpy clothing. She took a few steps before disappearing into another dark shadow.

"What ... who is that?" Susan asked in shock.

"I am not sure, but she comes and goes, the cameras don't capture more than a few seconds of her. She doesn't really do anything, so it makes me think she is just scoping the place out.... but it’s what is with her I am more concerned about," Nukha said. "Watch again, carefully this time.... watch the shadows around her." Nukha replayed the scene for a second time and as the blonde haired woman took the few steps in view, behind her, her shadow twisted and contorted into something unnatural.

"Gods another demon," Susan gasped. "Is she working with Mocsha? I thought he works alone."

"He does, I don't know who she is," Nukha said. "There has been so much shit going on no one has noticed, but then again she isn’t really standing out. Or…" Nukha sighed. "…this just might be the beginning of something unwanted. I suppose we will just have to wait and see.”

"What can be done?" Susan asked.

"Nothing yet, I will keep an eye on it and do some research, first thing is first, we gotta get Nyiakole out of there."

15: Chapter 15

Sitting on the couch, mindlessly watching television, Nyiakole stuffed herself with brownies that she had bought. It had been two weeks since Junyaho made her officially his by mating and marking her. His request for sex came often, and not being able to deny him, since he would just take her anyways, Nyiakole was slowly spiraling down into a depression. Luckily he had been away for most of the day attending to his clan. He said he would return that evening and left her his phone number. She set the now empty container to the side and rubbed her stomach.

With a heavy creak and thud, the crazed demon Mocsha hopped off the bottom step of the stairs that lead down into the bar. It was frustrating enough that he had to wait so long for Nyiakole to return. Junyaho did a good job keeping her location a secret, but as anyone would expect, she'd come back. Crackling his knuckles, his solid white eyes gazed right at Nyiakole as he smirked, revealing a hint of fangs.

"You know, for a pregnant woman, I expected a more radical appetite," he commented as he spotted the empty container. Nyiakole had almost begun to doze off when she heard someone enter the room. The voice chilled her bones and she recognized it. Quickly she jumped up off the couch and turned towards Mocsha, ignoring his comment, she let out a small growl.

"You know for someone getting their ass kicked, I would expect you not to come back here," she sneered. Nervous since she was alone, she did her best not to show her anxiety. Mocsha chuckled and kept progressing forward casually, yet slowly.

"My dear, my ass has been chewed harder than you and your little boyfriends could ever do, but that's beside the point. I've taken quite the interest in you dragons ever since then and I don't care who makes the order, I plan to finish what I start...and I'll enjoy this much more than the others. Plus, your corpse could make quite the interesting spark in your boyfriends," Mocsha said as he shivers in exotic delight "Ohhhhh me that will be quite the sight.” Nyiakole growled once more, his words did frighten her as his little shiver creep her out. As he walked forward, Nyiakole stepped back until the back of her legs hit the coffee table. The only thing she could really think about right now was not her own life but the one she was carrying.

She quickly cast a few wards around her rounded mid-section. Nyiakole was in no real condition for fighting, but she would have to try her best from a distance and try to make her escape. Mocsha then proceeds to change to the same… thing… he was the last time he appeared in Chaotic Nights all the while still talking as his voice slowly deepens to a demonic roar, his size growing more and more. His skin changed to a shade of dark green, his fangs were more noticeable, horns appeared on the sides of his head.  "Come now, Nyiakole, don't make me waste my time with you. Make this a fight to die for!"

"F....fine," she stuttered. Nyiakole managed to move around the coffee table and she made a gesture with her hand to send a wall of flames towards Mocsha. He kept his grin as the flames struck his guarding arms. Mocsha then pushes the flames aside, still maniacally eying Nyiakole. Holding out his own large, clawed hand, Mocsha summoned energy to his extremity and directed blast of chi at Nyiakole. With a hard rip, wings sprung from Nyiakole’s back. Flapping harshly, Nyiakole moved herself out of the way of the energy blast. Sending out another wave of flames as that was all she really could do as she tried to make her way to the stairs. This set of flames singed the demon’s flesh on his muscular arms, but Mocsha, being a psychotic freak, acted like he felt nothing. Still only walking to Nyiakole, he managed to corner the pregnant dragon to the far side of the room.

"It’s quite the sensation of feeling demonic power and blood rush through your veins for the first time. There are a number of pathetic demons out in the world, born with demon blood already in them. They are weak, have no drive, no power… all just a bunch of pussies. Demons like me Nyiakole are a rarity. Overpowered by darkness, anger and insanity, its demons like me that know true power. Insanity is but a mere word hiding an undiscovered source of power. Blocking out the reason and logic behind things truly makes a life worth living freely," Mocsha hissed out excitedly as he began firing more blasts of chi not caring where Nyiakole ran to. He'd be close to follow.

“I live my life under the weight of myself and no others.  Just living a life of eternal pleasure. Think about it, Nyiakole, isn't the feeling of losing control of yourself soooo gratifying? I could feel it as you recklessly charged at me that night. The loss of caring about what others told you, just wanting to tear me apart, even ignoring the safety of your own child. Now wasn't it just exhilarating?" he asked with a deep breath. Nyiakole moved and dodged about the best she could, using her wings to aid her. Though as careful as she tried to be, a blast got her and singed her leg.

Falling to her hands and knees, she couldn't put much weight on her leg. Her wings were open and ready to move her if needed as she glared over at Mocsha and growled, her fangs bared. The claws on her hands dug into the floor, she wanted to tear him apart right now, but would only risk it as a last resort. Growling again, she was not able to find the words to speak to him. Mocsha stops his barrage on Nyiakole for a moment upon seeing her glare at him so. He then stares at her excitedly and points at her.

"There...That's it. Let that madness consume you and only build up that bloodlust. It will only make the fight that much more worthwhile. Come at me now, Nyiakole! I want to see that madness in your eyes when I kill you!" With a burst of speed, Mocsha starts to run forward, ready to plow into Nyiakole like a freight train. Nyiakole took heavy breaths through gritted teeth.

"You should probably know already, but… dragons are rebellious and defiant, I refuse to give you what you want," she stated. Taking a few breaths to calm down, Nyiakole did her best to stand up, baring her fangs once more. A thick, long black tail appeared, extending from her back side. As soon as Mocsha lunged at her, she quickly moved out of the way at the last minute. Hurting her injured leg more, she hunched over and swung her tail up at Mocsha's face. Upon barely missing Nyiakole, Mocsha felt her razor tipped tail cut just along his cheek, below his eye. Suddenly thrusting a foot forward to stop himself, he grabbed Nyiakole's tail and proceeded to swing her around before throwing her towards a wall. Her back hit the wall hard, knocking the wind out of her and causing the wall to crack and crumble. Dizzy, nauseous and in pain, Nyiakole fell against the floor on her side, her body completely stunned.

"Whether you’re a dragon, or a human, Nyiakole...Insanity unites every race to see the same way. It rids our suffering and focuses on nothing, but our pleasures." Upon getting closer, Mocsha raised his large fist, ready to swat at Nyiakole. Glaring at the demon, she felt unable to move and could only muster a small growl.

"..... fuck you," she managed to get out. Mocsha started to get annoyed with Nyiakole's weak performance. He wanted to see that wild dragon he saw attack him so ferociously, more so than what Junyaho and Rei showed him. Stopping mid punch, Mocsha clenched his fist even tighter.

"Don't look at me like you're weak, Nyiakole! No one is coming to save you this time! It's just you! Little, lonely, and PATHETIC YOU!" roared Mocsha. Nyiakole took a few more breaths, and looked at Mocsha harshly.

"I don't expect anyone to save me," she said. Forcing herself up, she shifted to her dragon form, shredding her clothes in the process. Mocsha sighs with exhilaration as he sees Nyiakole change.

"Ha! Now that's what I've been waiting for!" Mocsha exclaimed in delight, motioning for her to come to him. "Come on, Nyiakole! Let's ravish in our hatred and madness of each other!" Mocsha then prepared himself as a small brush of force could be felt from him. Growling, Nyiakole sent another jet flame at Mocsha to hopefully distract him as she shadow morphed behind him. Biting at his calf, Nyiakole tried to encase her jaws around the muscle and shred it with her razor sharp teeth. As Mocsha fell for her trick, he felt a sharp sting shiver up his leg. Looking down, he spotted Nyiakole trying to tear open his leg, but the demon's hide was extraordinarily tough. The twinging pain was gradually getting a bit more annoying as Mocsha raised his foot high to stomp down on Nyiakole's neck.

Noticing the move, Nyiakole quickly released his leg from her jaws and moved out of the way with the help of her wings. She growled fiercely. She was limited, she was young and still learning what she could do as a dragon. Plus, being pregnant was slowing her down as well. Regaining his balance, the demon gazed at Nyiakole with his solid white eyes.

"Come on dragon, Can’t you do any better?” he taunted. At this point, Mocsha was only toying with Nyiakole to savor her death. The sensation of seeing her anger and potential madness was becoming so exhilarating to deny. The hunger, the longing, the lust for violence and bloodshed, it consumed him and he wanted to see it consume Nyiakole as well. Nyiakole bared her fangs. How much did he expect out of a pregnant eighteen year old? Dashing at full speed to him, she turned to the side right in front of him and slammed her body against his, trying to knock the brutish demon down.

Caught off guard by the sudden attack, Mocsha merely slid back and staggered slightly. Taking a moment to recover his balance, he was surprised yet again as Nyiakole’s tail collided with his legs. As he stumbled, Nyiakole spewed out a jet of flames from her jaws before scampering off to the other side of the room to put distance between herself and the monstrous demon.   

"Smart girl. However that doesn't limit me much." Mocsha hissed in agitation, brushing the flames to the side.  Holding his hands out, an orb of green light manifested in the demon’s palms. Crackling with energy, the light glows brighter before Mocsha hummed it at the little, black dragon. Following the attack, Mocsha runs as his target. Seeing the attack, Nyiakole hesitated. It was a mistake as the orb of energy grazed her arm as she was too late to move out of the way. Black shadow like wisps danced around her as she transformed back to her human appearance. Glancing up to see Mocsha charging right at her, Nyiakole’s form becomes solid black like a shadow as she sunk through the floor, and out of sight. Landing in the workout area in the basement, she became solid once more. Scouting the area, Nyiakole was lucky enough to find a large, white tank top.

She slid it quickly over naked body, grateful it covered her hips. The last thing she wanted was the demon gawking or making rude comments about her privates while fighting. Quickly running over to one of the workout benches, she picked up an empty pole, the kind the circular weights slid on. Grabbing a few heavy ones, Nyiakole slid the weights onto the pole and secured them. Lifting the heavy ended pole, she rested it easily on her shoulder. Shadow morphing back to the bar floor, right behind Mocsha, she gripped the pole tightly and swung the weights right at his back as if it were an oversized hammed.      

Feeling an immense force strike his back so suddenly, Mocsha stumbled forward. The weights cracked and clanked to the floor in heavy pieces. Taking a deep breath, Mocsha turns to Nyiakole with a glare, his fist clenched and glowing and unusual color. Rising his fist, Mocsha brings it down aimed right at Nyiakole’s head. In an attempt to defend herself, Nyiakole braced herself and jabbed out the pole, like a spear, at Mocsha’s fist.  As his fist collided with the end of the pole, the force of his attack sent Nyiakole flying back against the nearby wall. The other end of the pole jabbed her hard in the chest, knocking the wind out of her. She gazed over at Mocsha as her vision doubled and blurred, almost losing consciousness. Mocsha slid back slightly from the impact as well, his hand bleeding a bit from the hard stab of the pole. Seeing Nyiakole stunned, he advanced towards her in a calmly, with some final words to her.

"In the afterlife, make sure to learn from these fee le mistakes Nyiakole. I guess you were just too weak for any potential!" Standing in front of the fallen dragon Mocsha brings his hand back, his hand flat and fingers, together to skewer through Nyiakole’s body.  Suddenly before Mocsha is able to deliver the killing blow, a, unseen force hits his side and snaps his floating rib. Falling to his other side and skid across the floor a few feet from the impact, Mocsha glances up with gritted teeth to see who the assailant is. The figure stands firmly, wearing a black workout tank and jeans, his fists were raised up, donned in knuckle gloves and a black cap that is hiding his face. However as Mocsha didn’t move to get up, he turned away from the demon and to Nyiakole. As he turned away, Mocsha spotted a long blue hair in a braid. As he knelt before Nyiakole, Rei toss a cold glare to the downed demon.

"Hey, you alright?" he asked softly, turning his attention back to her. Nyiakole opened her dark green eyes to see Rei’s light green ones staring back at her. She had to think about his words before she could comprehend what he was saying. She was having a hard time focusing, she had hit her head pretty hard when she collided with the wall.

"I dunno...." she muttered out. Taking a few breaths, Nyiakole’s world seem to blur around her before she blacked out. Rei frowned as she slumped more against the wall. He hoped he wasn’t too late and there was no serious damage.

"Just sit tight, okay? I will get you out of here,” Rei whispered to her. Gently, he scoped her up into his arms and stood up just as Mocsha was starting to stand up himself.

"You... you just can't resist getting in the way, you parasite of a human!" Mocsha sneered.

“I guess not. Oh here, I have something for you,” said Rei as he reached into his pocket. He came prepared knowing he would cross paths with the crazed demon. Tossing an object to Mocsha, the brute caught it and looked. It was round, metal. Confused by what it was, he turned it over to see a timer with less than two seconds. Glancing up, he didn’t spot Rei or Nyiakole in the bar.

“Bastard,” was all Mocsha managed to say through gritted teeth as the little bomb exploded and he was sliced up with shrapnel. As the demon was distracted, Rei managed to run up the stairs with Nyiakole and out of Chaotic Nights. Carrying her down the block, there was a short limousine parked, provided by Nukha, waiting for them. The driver hoped out in a hurry and opened the door for Rei. Carefully, Rei laid Nyiakole in the back seat before he got in himself. Sitting himself on the floor, Rei made sure Nyiakole didn’t roll off the back seat as the driver started the car and drove off towards Nukha’s home.

Rei and Nukha had been working on a plan to get Nyiakole out of the bar without crossing paths with Junyaho, however, as Nukha noticed Mocsha via the security cameras, they had to act sooner than later. Rei removed his cap and looked at Nyiakole. Taking out his cell phone he quickly sent Nukha a text that he made it out of the bar alive with Nyiakole. Now, he could only rest his head against hers with his eyes shut. He had been so terrified that he wouldn’t make it in time, and now, he was troubled that she was seriously injured. Nyiakole laid there so still for quite a number of minutes before finally stirring and groaning.

"Mhhhhh" she hummed, having a pounding headache. Opening her eyes, she blinked a few times realizing she was no longer in Chaotic Nights. "Where....?" she muttered, trying to ask where she was. Sitting up as he heard Nyiakole try to speak, Rei smiled seeing she finally came to.

"Safe for now, is where you are, Nyiakole. Just relax," Rei said soothingly.           

"Rei....?" she questioned as her eyes came more into focus. ....Yes.... it was him... he had come back.... he had saved her.... and he was walking! She opened her mouth but couldn't find any words to say. She had been so depressed thinking she was never going to see him again. Rei kept his eyes on hers and gave his usual smile.

"Yeah," said Rei. "It's alright, Nyiakole. I know it's a bit of a surprise. I just… couldn't stay away from you." Leaning forward, Rei embraces Nyiakole gently having missed her so much. So many sleepless nights, he worried about her and what he wouldn't give just to see her again. Nyiakole just laid her head on his shoulder as she wrapped her arms tightly around him.

"It’s a nice surprise" she whispered. His words however, that he couldn't stay away from her, almost made her heart jump in delight. Nuzzling against him, she had felt so lost and alone without him. "Your legs," she whispered. "How?" she asked. Rei kept his arms around Nyiakole, his forehead resting against hers.

"Nukha found me and Ami a few days after we left. We had been scavenging for a while, not having much money or a shelter to call home. Nukha took us in at his nearest home. There, he offered me surgery for a new design. He said he had been working on it for years and thought I'd be the perfect first patient...So he proceeded to remove my old legs completely, bone and all and installed these… robotic one. Trust me… these aren’t simple. Nukha makes some really high tech stuff and these are amazing… it took a while to get used to,” explained Rei. Blushing, he adverted his eyes for moment. “But not one day went by where I wasn't thinking of you, Nyiakole...I just had to see you again." As Nyiakole listened to Rei's story, a part of it made her stomach queasy.

"Rei, if you and Ami had no place to go then... then why did you leave?" she asked. Junyaho had told her he had to go, as if he had something important to do. Of course she didn't need Rei to answer. She sighed and pressed her forehead against his shoulder. "He lied,” she muttered. She let out a halfhearted laugh. "I guess it’s no surprise.... I feel so stupid." So upset with Junyaho, Nyiakole began to tremble. She once again felt hurt and betrayed, but more so trapped by him. Rei gently nuzzled his cheek against Nyiakole's head knowing she was upset. Feeling her tremble, he couldn't hold back any longer.

“Despite why I left, I thought Junyaho could provide the love and protection you needed. Being in that chair, I felt like more a burden than a friend to you...but now...I only want to give what you want. I know I broke my promise when I left, but now I mean it for good...I'll be here for you always... because I love you, Nyiakole," Rei said gently. Those words, they hit Nyiakole almost as hard as flying into a brick wall. She didn't know what to say. She liked Rei, a lot, more so than most, even to the point of gladly being his mate, wife, girlfriend, whatever he wanted her to be to him, but those words? She had grown up in a culture that did not encourage love; there was hardly any affection at all. What was she supposed to say?

"Rei," she said touching his face gently. "Please…. I hope you understand. I care for you greatly and I never want to leave your side… I just… I don’t know what… love… is. I never felt it or had it shown to me. Please don’t think I don’t want to be with you, I just don't want to toss that word around when I don't understand it very well," she whispered as tears came to her eyes. Rei knew the consequences and risks of his admittance of loving Nyiakole and didn't regret it. He reached up and placed his hand over hers that touched his face.

"I know you have yet to understand it, Nyiakole, but I can't hide my true feelings any longer. I want to be completely honest with you, Nyiakole. I didn't expect a definite answer, but it changes nothing in how I feel. Being beside you makes me the happiest and I'll protect you better than any other. All I know is...I don't want to be away from you, again, ever,” he said. “More than anything, I want to make you happy again Nyiakole.”

“I am glad you’re honest with me, which pains me to be honest with you," she said. She closed her eyes, trying to stop the tears that were rolling down her face. "I want you to stay by my side, and I want to be by yours, I don't want you to leave me again... ever…" she whispered to him. “You don't know how stupid and foolish and weak I feel right now." Nyiakole looked away from Rei's eyes. Pulling down the collar of the white tank she was wearing, she revealed the bruised bite mark on her neck. The imprint of teeth that would leave a scar was a mate mark, and to a human, it might as well be a wedding ring. She was officially Junyaho’s and she knew he would not give her up easily.

"I ...just.... I didn't think... I don't know what to do," she sobbed out. Rei looked at the bruise for a few moments before moving his hand to cover it up. He was indeed a bit upset that such a mark was made on her, considering what it symbolized, but gently kissed her head. Nyiakole sniffled more as she buried her face against his chest as she wrapped her arms around him. Junyaho would be back in about a day or two, and that frightened her.

"Please, please don't let him take me back," she said desperately. "Please don't leave me with him." Holding her close to him, Rei took a deep breath. It was upsetting to see her so frighten. He gently stroked his hand through her short black hair.

"He won't have you Nyiakole. He won't even lay a hand on you ever again. I promise.”

16: Chapter 16

Flipping through pages of an old book, Nukha sat in his home office, studying and searching. The quiet events happening at Chaotic Nights had him so intrigued. Books upon books were piled high on his desk as he tried to find something, anything that may give him a hint. Finally he found it. The knowledge astounded him, but he couldn't just assume from old written text. No, he had to have a conversation, he had to find out more, things old books could not inform. Standing up from his seat, Nukha grabbed his coat and left his home. Reaching the streets he hailed a cab, and Nukha situated himself inside.

"Take me to the edge of Brooklyn please, just on the other side of the bridge," he instructed the driver. Nukha watched the lights of the city flash by until finally reaching his destination. Once the taxi cleared the bridge, Nukha pointed to a nearby store. "Just drop me off there." The driver pulled over, Nukha paid him and went on his way. Sticking his hands in his pockets, the half vampire walked a few blocks, the cold night air occasionally swept across his face. Stopping, Nukha was a few buildings away from the bar Nyiakole had called home. The young exiled princess had been staying in his home the past week or so, along with Rei, Ami, and of course, Pear.

Barely escaping with her life the last time, his home was the safest place the heavily pregnant dragon could be. She was too vulnerable to get into another fight with that psychotic demon Mocsha and Rei was hell bent on making sure she didn’t end up in Junyaho’s care. Nukha had to agree with that. Unlike Rei, he had seen the things the Dragon Lord would do. Looking at the bar, on the outside it merely appeared like an empty, abandoned building. Sighing, Nukha scratched the back of his neck, leaning back against the side of the building, he pulled out a cigarette. Lighting it, he took a long draw from it. Nukha could only hope he would be at the right place at the right time. Seeing a shadow move, it would seem he was. Almost appearing in the middle of the side walk, the blonde he had caught on camera was walking from the empty bar.

"Damn bitch, the fucking placed is trashed," the blonde hair woman cursed as she walked briskly past Nukha. Pushing himself off the building, Nukha quickly caught up with her.

"Excuse me miss, but I..." Nukha started to say. The blonde woman stopped dead in her tracks and gazed at Nukha. Her face, surrounded by blonde curls, was hard to read as there wasn't much of an expression. Bangs swept over one of her crystal blue eyes. Full lips were painted red. Her attire was something else. A blue band of fabric wrapped her large breasts, held together by string that crisscrossed over her chest. She was in black skinny jeans with blue heels, and he could easily see a pink thong rising from her jeans, but she didn't appear trashy. She was gorgeous, but the soulless look in her eyes confirmed Nukha's hunch that she was a demon. "I am just curious.... what is your business in that bar?" he asked.

"Cigarette,” was the sole word the blonde spoke. Nukha was confused by her statement.

"Excuse me?" he asked.

"Cigarette, you are bugging me and stressing me out, I would like a smoke." Understanding, Nukha nodded. He reached into his pocket and pulled out the pack. Handing a cigarette to her, Nukha then fished out a lighter to lite the end. The blond took a long drag before she looked back at Nukha, a smile came to her face with a slight creepiness.

"My business is none of yours," she said. Nukha smirked as he placed his hands in his pockets.

"Aww now... don't be like that," he said smoothly. "I have seen your beautiful self wandering the halls, and I just had to meet you, can I at least get your name?"

"It’s Candice sweetie," She replied. Taking a step closer to Nukha, Candice pressed her body against his. "Are you looking to die tonight?"

"Perhaps another night," Nukha said casually. He tried not to appear tense. He couldn't let his guard down, not around a pretty demoness like her. Candice stuck out her bottom lip in a pout.

"Awww too bad, I could make you die a very happy man," Candice cooed.

"I am sure you would... please walk with me," Nukha asked as he offered his arm.

 "Can I keep it?" Nukha let his arm rest back at his side.

"No, I need it," he said. He began to walk, and surprisingly, Candice followed. "So, may I ask again, what are you doing at the bar?"  

"I can't really talk about it," Candice said. Nukha hummed.

"Oh I see.... was it disappointing that you arrived and no one was there?" Nukha asked curiously. "Someone really destroyed the place didn't they?" A small grin came to Candice's face.

"You know where they all are, don't you? Tell me, please," Candice whined.

"Let's see, you tell me what you are doing in the bar, and I will tell you where the bar folk are," Nukha tried to bribe. Candice hummed and twirled a lock of hair around her finger.

"Follow me," she said with a sigh.

"Will I come back?" Nukha asked skeptically.

"Depends..." Candice said with a sly grin. "Are you going to come or not?" Nukha sighed and nodded.

"Yeah I will." With his confirmation, Candice continued to walk. Going down deep into an alleyway, Candice came up to a brick wall. Without a word a door like portal opened, as if it was activated by Candice's presence. Stepping through, following the demon, Nukha could only hope he wasn't getting in over his head. Once through the portal Nukha found himself in a very dark room, almost like a foyer. Glancing around trying to get his eyes to adjust, he caught sight of Candice walking down a hallway. Picking up the pace, he chased after her. She didn't go very far, opening a door, she lead Nukha into a small office. The entire back wall was nothing more the shelves filled with books; books were stacked along the walls and even in the chair for a guest to sit in. In the middle of the room was a desk and there he spotted in the dimly lit room a cloaked figure. As the figure looked up, Nukha could see the ash colored skin and the long white locks of hair.

"Candice, what is the meaning of this?" The voice, clearly feminine asked.

"He kept bugging me and asking questions, so I brought him to you Mistress Daiyulean," Candice said as she walked over to the desk. Leaning over, Candice peered at what Daiyulean was reading, she had never met anyone to this day that read as much as the dark elf. Nukha cleared his throat.

"Hello there, my name is Nukha," He said introducing himself. "I couldn't help but noticed the cute blond over there lurking around the bar, and she has gotten me all curious." Daiyulean looked over at Candice, who was leaning against the desk.

"I see... well Nukha... what is it that has you so curious that you are willing to risk your life?" Daiyulean asked.

"What is it you and your... associate doing at Chaotic Nights?" Nukha asked. Daiyulean's red lips smirked.

"I know very well of you Nukha, and if you are here to try to attain substance for that useless garbage you sell, you have come to the wrong place." Nukha kept a smile and his composure.

"Now now, I am not here to nitpick for my business. But I have noticed that you only became interested in the place after Nyiakole was attacked. If it is her you are after, consider this a friendly warning. The demon Mocsha was hired to kill her, he won't like it if anyone took that away from him."

"Who says anything about going after Nyiakole? I am merely watching and observing at this point," she said. "I know of how demons can be, it does not startle me in the least, in fact I work with one." Daiyulean claimed, gesturing to Candice.

"Yes I am aware of that," Nukha said. "So please tell me, why are you just watching and observing?"

"Why is it you wish to know?" Daiyulean asked as she leaned back in her chair. "Do you fear for the occupants’ safety? If so, trust me you have nothing to fear."

"Why should I trust you?" Nukha asked smoothly. He walked up to the desk, leaning forward, resting his hands against the edge. "You haven't said anything to soothe an ounce of my curiosity. Perhaps we can sit in a more relaxed setting and talk, say dinner.... and maybe do a little more talking afterwards?" Candice placed a hand over her mouth to muffle a giggle.

"Adorable you are Nukha, but such flirtation won't get you very far with me," Daiyulean said as her lips curved upward into a smirk. "Do you know much about Deaities?" she asked. Nukha seemed very surprised about the comment.

"A bit," he replied. "But I am afraid I don't see the connection."

"You don't have to," Daiyulean said. "Knowledge can be very useful key, but truthful knowledge can be even more powerful. More than half of this dreadful world walks around in their lives with blind stupidity."

"I agree with you there," Nukha said. "Majority of humans think they are they only race on the planet."

"Exactly, but my point of it being, is that I am tired of it all, I want the truths to be exposed and the world to rot in its ignorance. So rest assured, the interest I have in your little friends is merely just an interest." A smirk was brought to Nukha's face.  

"Well I look forward to see what you bring to light; your words have made me quite interested," Nukha claimed. "Are you sure I can't interest you in dinner? Your cute blonde friend can come along too," he added with a smirk. "I would love to learn more about you."

"I am sure, perhaps another time. I have other things to attend to," Daiyulean said. "I am sure you can find your way out, you seem like smart lad." Nukha nodded.

"Well, have a good evening then." Nukha bowed and turned to leave the office. Candice looked back at Daiyulean and gave her a pout.

"Aww, why did you let him live?" she asked.

"He was interesting, perhaps he will amuse me even more" Daiyulean said as she turned back to her book. "Now please explained what happened? Why were you not there when Mocsha attacked the second time?"

"I... was distracted at the moment...." Candice said as she stretched her arms over her head.

"I see... you always do have trouble keeping your wits about you, I would be most grateful if you could pay attention to you tasks. With that said, if that demon does happen to appear again, I want you to avoid him at all costs. Am I clear?" Daiyulean said sternly. Looking away, Candice rolled her eyes and sighed

"Yeah, yeah," she said.

As Nukha went back through the portal door, he brought out his cell phone and sent a quick text. Shortly a black car pulled up to the corner street he was on. Opening the passenger door, Nukha slid in and looked over at Susan.

"Thank you my dear," he said. The blonde nodded.

"Did you find out anything sir?" she asked curiously.

"Well it would appear we are dealing with a Deaity," Nukha said as he looked out the car window.

 "A Deaity sir?" Susan asked in confusion. Nukha glanced back at his assistant.

"A Deaity. It is an earth born being, a mortal, who has reached a higher level of existence. There has only been a small handful in history," Nukha explained.

"So... a god?" Susan asked.

"No, not exactly. Though they have reached a state of immortality, they are still bound to the earth, but the power and knowledge they can possess can be quite alarming and limitless," Nukha said with a sigh. He himself in his long life had never met one or seen one. From what he had read, most Deaities ultimately try to accomplish some ill fated scheme. "Susan, once we return home, start trying to find anything you can on a dark elf named Daiyulean, and anything on a blondie named Candice."

"Yes sir." She confirmed. They were nearly back at his home when Nukha checked his phone. He had kept it on silent, not wanting anyone to interrupt his little scouting mission. Seeing a text from Rei, he sighed.

“Shit… turn back around, go back to the bar,” Nukha instructed.

“Sir?” Susan questioned as she pulled onto a side road.

“Rei sent a text. He wants us to stay with Nyiakole at the bar until he and Ami can get there,” Nukha explained.

“The bar? Why would they be going back there?”

“Hello if I know,” Nukha said as he leaned back in his seat.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

In the Nukha’s guest room she was sharing with Rei, Nyiakole paced back and forth with her hands on her back. Rei was pulling a few clothes from the closet as he looked at her. A few minutes earlier they argued about staying at Nukha’s. Rei thought it was the safest option for the moment, but Nyiakole was insisting they return back to Chaotic Nights. Watching her pace, he laid the clothes on the bed.

“Are you okay?” he asked.

“Yes,” Nyiakole responded with irritation in her voice. “I just want to go home… I need to go home.” Rei sighed. With Nyiakole claiming the baby was coming soon and that she needed to go home and get ready, Rei had relented in the argument and started packing. Walking up behind her, Rei wrapped his arms around Nyiakole and placed his hands on her stomach before he laid his head against her.

“I can’t imagine how over whelmed you must feel. I know you want to get things ready for the baby, I know you want to feel like you are in your own space, but I want us to be smart about this Nyiakole,” he whispered softly.  Nyiakole closed her eyes and leaned against Rei as he held her in his arms. She had not mentioned anything earlier but she had been feeling pains all day. The urge to get home and the nagging instincts to settle made her feel like the baby was going to arrive any day. Taking a breath she pulled out of Rei’s arms.

“I know… but I just can’t have the baby here in Nukha’s house… it’s his house… and… it’s just really hard to explain Rei,” she said. Placing his hands on her shoulders, Rei looked down at Nyiakole.

“Help me understand then,” he said softly.

“My instincts are flaring, I know once the baby is born, it’s only going to get worse,” Nyiakole said, doing her best to explain. “This isn’t my house, this isn’t my home and Nukha… obviously…” she stressed the word, “… isn’t the father. It doesn’t feel right birthing the baby here.”

“What about me?” Rei asked.  “I’m…. I’m not the father either.” Reaching out, Nyiakole took Rei’s hands into her own and placed them on her stomach.

“I don’t know,” she said honestly. “My instincts and emotions will be so high… I might not be myself the first few days after the baby is born. I think if we were to stay here it would make things worse… I could even be violent towards you.” Seeing a disappointed look come across Rei’s face, Nyiakole sighed. “I know the bar is not safe, but it’s where I will feel safe having this baby. And no matter what Rei… you will be the father to this child.” Leaning up on her toes, Nyiakole wrapped her arms around Rei and hugged him as close as she could with her belly between them.

“Alright, if going back to the bar will help you not be a lunatic with claws, and then I will take you back to the bar. But, if I get one inkling that we are in danger, then I am dragging you and the baby back here, okay?” Rei asked. As Nyiakole nodded, Rei went back to packing. It was only a few minutes before Nyiakole felt the urge to go back get even stronger.

“Do you think you can finish packing while I go ahead and go?” Nyiakole asked. “Then you and Ami can meet me there?” Rei chuckled as he started to go through the dresser drawers.

“Now you are talking crazy,” he said as he shook his head. “I would have to say that is a very unwise thing to do.” As he looked over at Nyiakole, he could tell she was going to insist and not let it go. “Nyiakole… you can’t be by yourself.” Their discussion was interrupted by a knock on the door. One of the servants came in with a suitcase that had previously been requested.

“I don’t mean to be eavesdropping. Miss Susan actually went to pick Mr. Nukha up at Chaotic Nights a few minutes ago. Perhaps Nukha can stay with Nyiakole until you and Miss Ami can arrive with your things,” the servant suggested. Nyiakole looked at Rei with almost a pleading expression.

“Fine….” Rei sighed out, “Text me when you get there, and call if you need me right away.” Nyiakole hugged Rei.

“I will, see you soon,” she said before she left. Having a servant drive her back to Chaotic Nights, Nyiakole was feeling more and more restless as she became closer. The pains in her stomach started to increase as well. After she was dropped off, Nyiakole walked inside. “Nukha? Susan?” she called out. Not hearing a response, Nyiakole wondered if they haven’t arrived yet. Managing to get up the stairs and to her room, Nyiakole sat on her bed. Perhaps leaving by herself was a bad idea. As she took out her phone, a rather sharp pain tore through her, which caused her to fumble and drop her phone.  Cursing, she laid down on her side and tried to reach for the phone. As she almost had it, it was suddenly kicked out of her reach. Looking up, she saw Junyaho with a scowl on his face.

"You bastard, give me my phone back!" she hissed before her face scrunched up with pain. Laying back on the bed, she took a few deep breaths.

"Take it easy,” Junyaho said nonchalantly. Nyiakole let out a growl of her own as she tried to sit up, only to be pushed back down by Junyaho. "Calm down you stupid bitch,” he growled. “How long have you been in pain?”

“Why do you care?” she hissed.

“Well, I am not expert, but from the looks of it, you are in labor.”

“You are right, you are not an expert; now give me back my phone!” Nyiakole huffed out before she left out a small whine of pain. Junyaho rolled his eyes at Nyiakole.

“Here let me see,” Junyaho said as he reached for the hem of Nyiakole’s pants. Automatically, she slapped his hand.

“Fuck you, go away!”

“Fine, you can deliver this baby by yourself if you are in labor,” Junyaho said as he crossed his arms

 "I certainly don't want you here!" Nyiakole said.

 "Either I help you or you are on your own. Your choice," he added as he walked to the bedroom door, threating to leave. Pain gripped Nyiakole again causing her head to tilt back, letting out a small cry. She felt tears well up in the corner of her eyes.

 "Fine, fine... please help.... just promise you will call Rei. Please!" Nyiakole begged. Junyaho turned back to Nyiakole writhing in her pain.

"Alright. I will call him when its over," Junyaho replied.

“What? No, now!” Nyiakole said in a panicked tone.

“No, after the birth, this is my child and I don’t want his presence in here,” Junyaho replied in a firm voice. Walking to the bed and sitting down, this time he managed to undo Nyiakole’s pants and pull them from her legs. Nyiakole parted her legs as Junyaho checked her. Winching as she felt his fingers push deep into her, he then gave her a look.

"You are almost fully dilated, why haven't you told anyone you were in labor?" Junyaho asked puzzled. Getting off the bed, he walked into the bathroom where he grabbed a few towels and a pair of scissors. "You are well educated so you can't use the stupid excuse."

"Shut up!" Nyiakole whined. She let out another cry, trying to curl her body in her pain. As she panted Junyaho could see the wetness on her face from tears. "How do you know any of this anyways, have you ever birthed a baby?" Nyiakole asked curiously.

"No, but being an expecting father, I have done a lot of research, I am surprised you haven't it seems." Junyaho said, sitting back on the bed.

"Sorry, I have been busy trying to stay alive" Nyiakole said with a roll on her eyes. Another wave of pain rolled through her and with it she felt this incredible urge. "Oh my stars!" Nyiakole cried out, gritting her teeth. The pain was more intense than it had been.

 "Well, it seems you are ready" Junyaho said. Placing a towel between her legs, Junyaho then helped Nyiakole sit up a little more as he placed pillows behind her to prop her up. "I need you to put your hands behind your knees, when you feel like you have to push, pull your knees to your chest, hold your breath and push for a few seconds, relax and do so again," Junyaho instructed. At this point, Nyiakole's heart was beating so fast. A sense of fear gripped her chest as the big moment had come. Doing as Junyaho said, she slipped shaky hands under her knees and pulled them close to her chest. Taking a breath, she pushed causing her to feel an entirely new level of pain.

"Holy hells!" she cried out. "I don't want to do this... please don't make me do this," Nyiakole gasped out.

"Nyiakole, birth is never easy, I need you to focus, you have to," Junyaho said. Nyiakole whimpered as she felt another contraction and urge to push. Pulling her knees close to her again and pushing, Nyiakole felt sheer agony. A stream of tears rolled down the ride of her face.

"Oh I hate you Junyaho! Why did you do this?!" Nyiakole sobbed out.

"Easy Nyiakole, just take deep breaths," Junyaho said in a rehearsed sort of way. Pushing once more, Nyiakole tried to fight through the pain. Relaxing against the pillows for a moment, a deep depressing emotion gripped her heart. Even though Junyaho was there, she felt so utterly alone. She desperately wished Rei was here with her, to comfort her, support her, tell her everything was alright, and knowing he would actually mean it. Choking out a few sobs, Nyiakole closed her eyes.

"Good Nyiakole, almost there," Junyaho informed her. His golden eyes were fixed on her. As the baby started to emerge, Junyaho reached down to cradle the head. The top of the head was covered in matted black fuzzy hair, it cause Junyaho to softly smile. "Nyiakole pull up your shirt, all the way," Junyaho instructed.  Pulling her shirt up, Nyiakole gritted her teeth and cried as she pushed more. Junyaho watched as the shoulders made its way through, earning cries and gasps from Nyiakole. Then just like that, the rest of the baby slid out, free as the cold air hit the skin, the baby starting crying itself. Carefully holding the slick baby, Junyaho laid the baby against Nyiakole's bare stomach.

Looking down and seeing her baby, Nyiakole soon sobbed along. As she held the babe against her, Junyaho covered them with a blanket while checking that the airways were clear and the baby could breathe just fine. The baby soon quieted being warmed and close to Nyiakole, listening to that familiar heartbeat, smelling that familiar smell. Junyaho clamped the umbilical cord, and with a snap of his fingers a flame ran across the scissor blades before he carefully cut. Moving the baby up to Nyiakole's chest, he looked down at her.

"Let him suckle," he said. Nyiakole looked up at Junyaho.

"A boy?" she exclaimed. She had been so overjoyed and shocked and the arrival of her baby, she didn't even take a moment to notice the gender.

"Yes, you birthed me a son," Junyaho said with a gentle smile. "Now let him suckle, it’s important, you need to bond and establish yourself as his mother," Junyaho explained. Nyiakole nodded. Gently maneuvering her son, she found it was easy as he latched right onto her breast.  "Do you know of a name?" Junyaho asked curiously. Staring at her son for a little while longer Nyiakole looked over at Junyaho.

"Yes, Anari," she said. Her voice was soft, but firm that she wouldn't accept any other name.

"Hmmm.... after your mother... " he said. Letting Nyiakole and their son bond, Junyaho started to clean up Nyiakole. There was a mess of blood came along with the birth and upon inspection, he discovered Nyiakole had torn. Gently healing her birth wounds, Junyaho tried to ease the pain and soreness as much as he could. All seemed well. Glancing back up to see Nyiakole's eyes were closed, exhausted and asleep from the ordeal. Picking up a clean blanket, Junyaho wrapped his son up and cradled him.

"...Anari... I suppose that is suitable," he mused. A small sound then caught Junyaho's attention. Seeing Nyiakole's phone on the floor vibrating, he curiously picked it up and checked. There were seven text messages from Rei. Mostly 'are you okay', 'please text me back', and the latest 'I am on my way'. Tossing the phone back to the floor, Junyaho looked down at his sleeping son before glancing back to the sleeping Nyiakole. There was no way he was going to leave Nyiakole, or his newborn son with the likes of a human. Walking back over to Nyiakole, he carefully slid his arm under her back and pulled her close to him. With a few whispers of magical words, all three vanished.

   

Watching the endless buildings rolls by, Rei was eagerly sitting in the car as he was being driven to Chaotic Nights. At Nyiakole not responding to his texts, it sent Rei into a nervous wreck. Leaving Ami to finish packing, he immediately left for the bar. He could only hope that Nyiakole was just sleeping. Before the car came to a full stop, Rei open the door and jumped out.

"Nyiakole! Nyiakole!" He shouted once he was inside.

 

“She isn’t here,” Nukha said, greeting Rei at the door. Glancing around, Rei darted up the stairs and to her room. Flinging open the door, Rei darted to her bedroom. Looking in, he saw no sign of Nyiakole, but there was a lot of blood on her bed and an odd smell in the air. There were no signs of a struggle, there was no body. She had the baby. Gritting his teeth, Rei took out his cell phone and tried to call Junyaho. The line just continued to ring and ring with no answer

17: Chapter 17

Deep snow crunched under heavy boots. With each step Nukha's leg sunk almost to the knee. Pausing and taking a few heavy breaths, he glanced around the mountainous area.

"Why does he stay here?" he muttered to himself. Resting his hands on his knees, Nukha let out a loud sigh. He couldn't remember which way to go. The cold started to reach him, causing Nukha to hug his coat closer to his body. As the moments passed by, Nukha wondered if this had been a waste of time, perhaps the person he was looking for no longer resided here. Trudging on the steep incline of the mountain was difficult and Nukha was getting exhausted. Coming upon a snow dusted rock wall, Nukha looked up and noticed a cave opening. This might be what he was looking for.

"Hey.... You up there? Hey!!" Nukha shouted. The air was quiet as the snow dusted wind chilled his body even more. Nukha let out a sigh and was about to turn away when the ground started rumbling. Morphing in front of him, the jagged rock wall formed rough, shallow steps. Having to grip the edge with his hands while he climbed, Nukha climbed his way up. Reaching the mouth of the cave, he pulled himself up and onto the ledge. Standing up and taking a few steps in, his eyes adjusted slowly. Sitting in the middle of the cave was the person he had been seeking out.

"Geez, I don't see why you want to stay out here all the freakin' time," Nukha huffed as he pulled his coat closer to his body.

"What is it you want Nukha?" The older man asked.

"So demanding," Nukha said with a roll of his blue eyes.

"Well you never come here to just say hello," he argued. Standing up the elder man reached a few inches over six feet and was very well built. He had well groomed, short graying hair and striking purple eyes.

"True... I do need something from you," Nukha said with a sigh. "I was wondering if you would be interested in taking a student." The elder man’s eye brow raised in curiosity.

"You want me to train someone? Who?" He asked in surprise. Nukha fidgeted as he scratched the back of his head.

"A human.. he has already shown some impressive abilities, I think you can help improve his skills… and more." Nukha explained.

"A human? Seriously?"  he asked. “..More?...What do you mean by that?”

"Yes, he can already channel his energy into certain moves.  Makes his punches and kicks have more force than a normal human… especially his kicks.” Nukha replied with a nod, smirking slightly about the kick comment. Placing his hands in his pockets, he continued, “…Aaaand…. he is currently the love interest of the Dragon King's daughter."

“Oh Nukha…” the man sighed out. He placed his hand on his forehead as he gently shook his head. “Let me guess. He hasn’t made a good impression with the dragons.” Nukha gave a curt nod.

"You can kinda say that. We have reason to believe that she had just given birth, to Lord Junyaho's child no less, and she is missing… been missing, for a few weeks actually," Nukha explained farther, adding uncertainty in his voice.

"And you just want me to throw myself into all that?"

"Yeah, I know it is a lot... but if anyone could actually help in it would be you," Nukha said, snapping his fingers and pointing to him. The elder man paced slowly around the cave, looking around his dwelling. It was a lot to think about. No one really interfered with the Dragon Society. He was almost tempted to have Nukha tell the human kid to cut his losses.

"Is there anything else I should know about?" He asked gesturing to Nukha.

"Well... he is the runaway son of the Asian Mafia Boss." Nukha said.

"Where in the hell do you meet these people Nukha?"

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

Sitting at the bar, Rei sulked as he glared intensely at his phone. He had discovered the signs of Nyiakole's birth weeks ago. He couldn't get in touch with her or Junyaho, her father, not anyone. He was angry and frustrated, but most of all worried. He had avoided everyone, including his sister. He just felt this big rage slowly building inside of him. Grabbing his phone, Rei gripped it tightly before flinging it against the wall. Hitting the wall with a thunk, it clattered against the floor and shattered, leaving a dent in the wall.

"Did I come in at a bad time?" asked a soft feminine voice. Rei sat up on the bar stool and looked toward the stairs. There he saw a tall woman with long white hair. She had bright, vibrant green eyes and held herself with grace and pride. She appeared to be older, maybe pushing into her late fifties, but well in shape.  Her clothing seemed tribal, yet elegant. Along with everything else that was going on, Rei had every reason to believe that this woman was not a human.

"Can I help you?" Rei asked flatly. The woman approached towards the bar as she let her eyes wander over the room.

"Perhaps, I was told I could find someone here." she said. Rei didn't say anything as he held his gaze at the woman. "I am looking for a young pregnant girl." Shyly emerging from the kitchen, Ami peaked out into the bar room to see who her brother was talking to.

 

"You mean Nyiakole?" Rei glanced over his shoulder to his sister and glared.

"Ami," he said firmly in Korean. "Don't speak." Rei turned his attention back to the woman. "What do you want?"

"Nyiakole you said?" Her green eyes narrowed slightly. "That is a dragon's name right? You don't mean the king's daughter do you?" Rei's glare became firmer as he stood up off the stool.

"Look here, I don't know who you are or what you want but I am tired of everyone trying to fuck with Nyiakole! If you here to try and cause any harm I swear I will rip your heart out!" Rei said with a growl.

"Brother calm down" Ami said softly. With Nyiakole gone, her brother’s mood and temper seemed to be getting worse and worse and it was really starting to worry her.

"Kaiyan,” the woman said. Rei held his glare at her. "My name is Kaiyan, a fellow rogue, I have no intention of harming her."

"Then what do you what?" Rei asked harshly.

"I want to meet her... I might be able to help her," he explained. Ami stood quietly, looking between her brother and this Kaiyan woman.

"Brother... " she said, trying to be a voice of reason. However, she quieted as Rei let out an aggravated sigh as he sat back on the stool.

"Even if that is true, she isn't here," Rei said.

"Well were is she?" asked Kaiyan. Slumping his head, Rei looked at the ground. His posture became that of defeat.

"I don't know. I should have never let her come back by herself." He muttered. Ami walked over to where her brother sat and placed her hand on his shoulder.

"It’s okay, we will find her, we will get her back home," She whispered. Even at hearing her words, Rei still couldn't help but feel a sense of hopelessness. As if he was never going to see her again. Kaiyan continued to stay where she stood. She cleared her throat.

"I can see you both have a lot going on, perhaps it would be best if I checked back in later," she said. Rei looked back at the woman. He was about to question her further, when he heard heavy footsteps making their way down to the bar. Standing up, Rei placed his hand on his hip where his gun was holstered to thinking it could be Junyaho returning, or worse, Mocsha. However, as Kaiyan stepped aside to make room, it was another unfamiliar face. This one a tall man with greying hair and purple eyes. The older man looked around in surprise.

“Oh? Didn’t expect a party waiting for me,” he said with a small chuckle. Rei placed his hand on his face.

“And who are you?” he sighed out.  

"My name is Hanku, Your friend Nukha requested that I train you. And by the looks of you, he wasn't lying when he said you desperately need help,” said the new arrival

"What? Where is Nukha? He didn't tell me about any of this!" Rei groaned. “Ugh! Where the hell where you people weeks ago when I actually needed your help? My girlfriend has her baby and is kidnapped by that bastard Lord Junyaho and now help comes flocking to my door?” As Rei vented, Kaiyan looked him over.

“A human and a dragon? That is an odd combination,” she commented. Rei sighed as he sat back on the bar stool.

“The baby is not mine… I mean… “Rei grumbled as he placed his head in his hands.

“Defeating a Dragon Lord isn’t going to be an easy feat for a human such as yourself. You have a lot to learn if you want the hope of getting Nyiakole and the child back and to keep them safe,” Hanku said to Rei’s frustration. “Junyaho is not going to say ‘Okay here you go, man I am sorry’.” As Rei continued to hold his head, Kaiyan took a few steps towards him.

"A word of the wise," she said to Rei. "Want to defeat a dragon, then humble yourself and learn from one." As she glanced over at Hanku, Kaiyan never had met him before, but from his scent alone, she could tell she was one of her own kin.

"You’re a dragon?" Ami chimed in.

"That I am," Hanku replied. Glancing back at Rei with his purple eyes, Hanku spoke once more. "The advice given is indeed wise. I know how frustrating and angry it can be to lose those you love. This is a great opportunity that has fallen in your lap, don't waste it." Rei glared down at the floor. He took a deep breath and cleared his mind. He knew he had to keep his anger under control, but it was just so hard. With creaking of steps, Nukha soon joined the group.

"Damn, why did she had to pick a place with so many steps!" he said. "I mean.... one whole floor is just wasted space." Taking a breath, Nukha looked over at Rei then to Hanku. "Good, I can see you two already met."

"Yes we have, Nukha why didn't you tell me?" Rei asked. Nukha gave a slight grin.

"Well, I wasn't sure if I could convince him to train you are not. You would be one of his first students, and when we get Nyiakole back he can help further her training as well."

"Right,” Rei huffed out. Nodding his head, he added, “Alright… train me.”

"Good choice, I am glad you have decided not to be a waste of my time," Hanku replied. "Rest up, we will start bright and early in the morning and think of some way to recuse your princess."